#49 • Auguste Lebeau Pre-WWI 20 Gauge Side by Side Shotgun

Part of June Firearms Auction (live auction by Linkous Auction Group)

High bid $4,000.00

Status: Sold

Auguste Lebeau Pre-WWI 20 Gauge Side by Side Shotgun, serial number 38178, a fine Belgian sporting shotgun manufactured in Liège, Belgium prior to World War I, featuring 28 inch fluid steel barrels marked “Acier Léveque” and signed “Aug. Lebeau A Liege” on the rib, chambers marked 70mm (2 3/4 inch), choked cylinder in the right barrel and improved cylinder in the left barrel, finely crafted sidelock extractor gun with double triggers, Greener style crossbolt locking system with doll’s head rib extension, and 15 1/4 inch length of pull, beautifully engraved throughout with detailed scroll engraving covering the receiver, trigger guard, top lever, fences and forearm iron, barrels retain strong finish with excellent appearance and bright bores, walnut stock and splinter forearm display attractive figure, sharp checkering and honest handling wear consistent with a well cared for sporting arm, barrel rib additionally marked “Fabᵗ des Cours Impᵃˡes de Russie & d’Allemagne,” translating to “Manufacturer to the Imperial Courts of Russia and Germany,” indicating the high quality and prestige associated with the maker during the pre-war European sporting era, the gun locks up tight and exhibits the craftsmanship, balance and elegance associated with high grade Belgian doubles, an exceptional and desirable European game gun in the highly sought after 20 gauge configuration that would make an outstanding addition to any fine sporting arms collection.