Been for sale for a long time now. You would think that for 75k, they would offer more than 2 horrible pictures.

Well, looking at the condition of the rifle in the one shown. Perhaps it is better not to. Maybe the rest is in worse condition?

$75,000 and "the price is firm" is why it has been for sale for a long time and will continue to do so. WJ was not a famous hunter, not many knew of him until PHC's book came out, and nothing since. No doubt he had a great life but that price for a worn out rifle whose provenance is not all that outstanding has many in the African hunting community, AR men, and gun folks in general shaking their heads in disbelief. And this is why the rifle has not been offered on RIA or JJ. Even with a reserve, what is offered would determine the true market value. My guess--10% of the asking price. Maybe a bit more. What say you all? What is your estimate of the value? This would make into an interesting discussion.
Cheers, men.
Cal
PS. I just re read the GB ad. Three major magazines published articles on the rifle and WJ. All three came out in 2015. It is obvious the owner was baiting the line for the planned 75K sale. More power to him. If successful he has a good chunk of change. If I could sell some of my low quality rifles for that money I would certainly do it. So would all of us!

I don't see $20,000 for it?

With a new barrel, re-blue, and a nice stock it might be worth a few thou.

quote:

Originally posted by Grenadier:
With a new barrel, re-blue, and a nice stock it might be worth a few thou.

+1

Something for the garbage collectors.

I wouldn't buy it at any price.

Dave

And, add $400 to the firm 75K price for ground shipping. For those interested, here is the ad:

Winchester Model 70 .375 H&H Magnum from the Wally Johnson estate. Mr. Johnson is the subject of Peter Hathaway Capstick's biography "The Last Ivory Hunter" and this was his most-used hunting rifle. Serial 13997 was made in 1938 and is certainly among the most historic and important hunting firearms ever offered, as it was used to take countless elephants and other dangerous game during Wally's storied career. After becoming a professional hunter, Wally carried it when guiding an impressive list of clients which included Robert Ruark. Warren Page, Fred Huntington, Jack Lott and Fred Bear, as well as while hunting with Harry Manners. As is expected, its condition reflects generations of hard use - but it remains perfectly operational. Recent issues of Safari (Nov/Dec '15) Sports Afield (May/June '15) and Petersen's Hunting (April/May '15) detailed every aspect of this rifle, and copies are included with the purchase. Also included are personalized a letter of authenticity from Wally's son, Walt, plus an impressive selection of large laminated photographs of Wally with his famous clients and some of his best trophies. Walt Johnson will also personally inscribe a copy of Capstick's book for the purchaser. Finally, the Johnson family is including their framed print (27/500) of Guy Coheleach's "The Last Ivory Hunt" elephant print (which appears in the limited edition of Capstick's book). The price is firm and reasonable time purchases will be considered. Photos are available by request.

It would make a wonderful addition to the decor of any pub frequented by big game hunters. I can visualize it on a rack behind the bar, resting over a painting of a recumbent nude.

On second thought, perhaps a painting of elephants in the savanna would be more appropriate.

At the last SCI show I was able to handle and photograph Wally's 375 and talk with his son Walt and close friends Joe Coogan and Lon Paul.

If I found an identical rifle in a pawn shop I would be hesitant to pay even the $400 shipping price !

Methinks someone way overvalued the provenance.

I didn't know Wally Johnson, and until I read the book, I had no idea who he was.

Is it worth more than a similar .375? Absolutely. But how much more?

IMHO they overpriced it by $70K, but if they can find a buyer, I am wrong.

So to me, I would pay $5K +/-

quote:

Originally posted by crbutler:
Methinks someone way overvalued the provenance.

I didn't know Wally Johnson, and until I read the book, I had no idea who he was.

Is it worth more than a similar .375? Absolutely. But how much more?

IMHO they overpriced it by $70K, but if they can find a buyer, I am wrong.

So to me, I would pay $5K +/-

I would buy the gun and not the story.
It`s a $1500-2000 Pre-64 M70 and nothing else.