16 Gauge choked Cylinder/Cylinder. 31" barrels. SN: 8870 (mfg. ca. 1880-1890). Browned Damascus patterned barrels, relief engraved French gray receiver, horn triggerguard and operating lever, checkered European hardwood stock with raised carving and cheek rest on the obverse, checkered forend. 2.5" chambers, 14.25" length of pull, 1.75" drop at comb, 2.75" drop at heel. A high-quality German side-by-side double barrel sporting shotgun by Franz Collath, marked “FRANKFURT A/O,” indicating manufacture in Frankfurt an der Oder, and dating to the late 19th century. The gun features finely patterned Damascus steel barrels with a raised rib and double triggers. The action is profusely engraved with detailed game scenes, including a stag and fox in woodland settings, framed by dense foliate scrollwork. The maker’s name “COLLATH” appears within the engraved panels, identifying the noted German gunmaker Franz Collath. Franz Collath (active late 19th–early 20th century) was a prominent German firearms manufacturer known for producing high-quality sporting arms, including drillings and combination guns, often incorporating proprietary cartridge systems. His better-grade firearms are recognized for their craftsmanship, engraving, and materials, comparable to work from Suhl and other major German gunmaking centers. Additional features include a sculpted horn grip/trigger guard with pronounced spur, a high-grade walnut stock with carved cheekpiece, and a relief-carved hunting vignette at the buttstock. The fore-end includes an inlaid escutcheon or maker’s device, further indicating a higher-grade build. The gun is fitted with sling swivels and exhibits craftsmanship consistent with fine German hunting arms of the period. Based on maker, materials, and construction, the shotgun dates to approximately the 1880s–1890s and qualifies as an antique under U.S. federal law.

Pickup & Shipping: Free pickup in Gardnerville, NV. FedEx shipping within the continental U.S.: $75 + 1.5% insurance (unless waived in writing). Combined shipping available.

Very Good. Bores fine and bright. The shotgun retains crisp, well-executed engraving with detailed stag and fox hunting scenes. Damascus barrels display a strong visible pattern with an even aged patina with a mixtured of thinning brown finish and surface oxidation. Metal surfaces show light wear consistent with age, with no major pitting observed. Walnut stock remains solid with attractive grain, minor handling marks, carved cheekpiece, and a relief-carved hunting scene at the butt. Checkering remains sharp. Horn grip/trigger guard assembly is intact and well-preserved. Fore-end features an inlaid escutcheon. Mechanically functonal when operated by hand.