The accompanying factory letter lists this rare, historically significant shotgun with a 20 inch barrel in 12 gauge, carbine sling rings and factory inscribed "American Express Co. #1" (likely a factory error as "2" is the number actually marked on the receiver) when received in the warehouse on May25, 1892 and shipped on the same day. The shotgun was shipped with two other American Express Co. marked Model 1887s. Initially founded in New York in 1850 by Henry Wells, William G. Fargo, and John Warren Butterfield, American Express Co. quickly became a leader in freight forwarding, particularly on the East Coast. After a disagreement with Butterfield over expanding their freight network to California, Wells and Fargo would branch off to form another legendary freight company, Wells Fargo & Co. These Model 1887 shotguns were cutting edge technology in 1892 and would have been highly valued by freight companies looking to arm their employees, particularly in areas where train and stagecoach robberies were not uncommon. The barrel to this shotgun has been slightly shortened from its original length of 20 inches to 19 1/4 inches during its period of use. It was common with 19th century arms purchased by various express companies to shorten barrels. This Model 1887, as all the authentic look and feel of an American Express Co. shotgun that has seen it all! The barrel lacks sights. The receiver has the standard "WRACO" monogram and factory saddle ring and bar on the left side and the original factory inscription "Am. Ex. Co. 2" on the right side. The lower tang has the four-line address/patent dates marking. The pistol grip stock is fitted with a checkered steel buttplate. Provenance: The John Fox Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Good overall as an authentic American Express Co. survivor showing a dark mottled patina associated with a lifetime spent in a challenging environment. The forearm and buttstock show similar "frontier issue" character with absent chips and slivers. Mechanically fine. A real piece of Old West history rarely encountered!