Preliminary identification

"New Nitro" Single-Shot Shotgun, c. 1910–1920

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A classic 'hardware store' single-shot shotgun, featuring an elegant 'New Nitro' script on the receiver and a distinctive squirrel carving on the stock. These robust, no-nonsense firearms were the backbone of rural American life, designed for utility and reliability in the field.

Story

Born in an era when 'Nitro' powder was the cutting-edge technology replacing old black powder, this gun was a farmer's best friend. Sold through local hardware stores, it was the tool that put dinner on the table during the Great Depression.

Maker / Origin

Crescent Fire Arms was the king of 'trade name' guns, producing over 2 million firearms under hundreds of different labels for retailers. They specialized in making affordable, high-quality tools for the average American, often using the same basic designs for dozens of different brands.

Condition & Value

The metal shows a heavy, honest patina with surface oxidation consistent with age and use. The stock has expected handling marks, but the carving remains remarkably clear. The action should be checked by a gunsmith before any attempt to fire. The wear reduces value by roughly 20-30% compared to a pristine example.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD