Lot 3447

Chrysler Pattern Winchester Model 21 Shotgun for Maj. Hession

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Chrysler Pattern Winchester Model 21 Shotgun for Maj. Hession

Estimate: $5,000 - $7,500

Starting Bid: $4,500

(0 Bids)

by Rock Island Auction Company
August 23, 2026 9:00 AM CDT
Live Auction
3600 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX, US 76021

Attractive "Chrysler Pattern" Engraved Winchester 20 Gauge Model 21 Double Barrel Shotgun Made For Major J. W. Hession with Factory Letter The included factory letter lists the current gauge, oil finished French walnut, comb width, and Custom Grade when inspection was completed on April 6, 1934, for Major John (Jack) W. Hession (1877-1962). Major Hession was a renowned competition shooter and soldier who also acted as the shooting promotion manager for Winchester, a job which had involved him in Walter Chrysler's famous Model 21 the year prior. Given this connection, and the proximity in time to one another, it is possible that Hession subsequently had this gun engraved in the same pattern "off books" by the factory. The gun has blued Winchester Proof Steel barrels featuring dual bead sights on the matted concave solid rib marked "CUSTOM BUILT BY WINCHESTER", wedges of tight scroll engraving at either breech, chokes marked full/full, and chambers measured 2 3/4 inches with ejectors. The barrels are fitted to the French grey finished action which displays the "Chrysler Pattern" near full coverage tight scroll engraving which continues off of the action body and onto the trigger guard, tangs, and toplever. The gun features a single selective trigger and a tang mounted manual safety/ The gun is fitted with a beautifully figured and multi-panel checkered beavertail forend with engraved French grey iron and release as well as a straight grip stock with "J/W/H" in the silver stock oval and a checkered butt. Barrel and stock measurements (R/L): bore diameter nine inches from the breech .617/.618 inches; choke constriction .007/.024 inches; minimum wall thickness .022/.021 inches; 1 5/8 inch drop at comb; 1 7/8 inch drop at heel; 14 1/16 inch length of pull; weight 5 lbs. 10 oz.

Manufacturer: Winchester

Model: 21

BBL: 28 inch solid rib

Stock: walnut

Gauge: 20

Finish: blue/French grey

Serial Number4283

Class: Curio & Relic Long Gun

  • Provenance: Major John (Jack) W. Hession: Property of a Gentleman
  • Condition: Very fine as professionally embellished, possibly by the factory, retaining 99% blue and French grey finishes, light handling evidence, minor spotting, some dried grease, and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000