DAY ONE: The Collection of Charline & Red McCombs
Sat, Aug 29, 2026 11:00AM EDT
Lot 427
Red McCombs | South Carolina Stamped Sharps-Borchardt Model 1878 "Old Reliable" Rifle
Estimate: $1,000 - $1,500
Starting Bid
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $10 |
| $100 | $25 |
| $500 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,500 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $25,000 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 |
Serial: 19784
Manufacturer: Sharps Rifle Co.-Bridgeport, Conn. (c. 1879)
Model: M1878 "Old Reliable"
Caliber: 45-70 Govt.
Barrel Length: 32.25 in.
OAL: 48.5 in.
Condition: Good-antique; wood strock & forend have moderate wea w/ dark patina; split on left wrist; barrel & receiver have scattered rust & pitting on the blue finish; bore has scattered pitting, but retains brightness & good rifling; mechanically functional
Includes: cleaning rod; sling swivels; adjustable rear ramp sight
Marked: "Old Reliable" on the top of the barrel behind the year sight; "SC" stamped on upper receiver tang (indicating 1 of 100 estimated 1878 rifles sent to South Carolina)
Provenance: Property from the personal estate collection of iconic Texas businessman, civic leader and philanthropist Billy Joe Red McCombs (1927-2023) from his home in Olmos Park, Texas; previously on long-term loan to either San Antonio Academy or the Bexar County Courthouse; this lot is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity as property from the McCombs personal estate
No FFL NICS Check Required: Antique
Condition
reference # 184k
Available payment options
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