Gun Collectors Dream Auction #86 Collector Auction
Lot 566:
Description
This lot contains a Smith & Wesson Model 78G .22 caliber (5.5mm) CO2-powered air pistol, designed to replicate the weight and balance of the manufacturer’s Model 41 target handgun. The pistol features an 8-inch barrel and is constructed with a black-finished metal frame and barrel housing, fitted with brown checkered polymer grips. Verbatim markings on the left side of the barrel read MODEL 78G .22 CAL. followed by a small Smith & Wesson logo, while the right side of the barrel is marked SMITH & WESSON AIR GUN DIV. SPRINGFIELD, MASS., U.S.A. The left side of the frame bears a large Smith & Wesson trade mark logo and the serial number 0003712. This lot of 8 items includes the pistol, the original blue factory box with a matching serial number of 3712, one clear acrylic display stand, one tin of Beeman Silver Sting .22 caliber pointed pellets, and four 12g CO2 cartridges. The box indicates production during the Bangor Punta era of company ownership.
Condition report:
The air pistol retains a majority of its black finish, though moderate wear is visible in the form of finish loss along the high edges, various surface scratches, and minor silvering. Surface oxidation is present on the metal bolt handle. The brown polymer grips are well-preserved with sharp checkering and minor handling marks. The bore is clean and bright with well-defined rifling. The action appears to cycle correctly, but the pistol has not been pressurized or function-tested for leaks or firing capability. The original box exhibits significant shelf wear, including edge crushing, tearing, and surface abrasions. The pellet tin and four CO2 cartridges appear in good condition with minor surface storage wear.
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