An 1883 US Model Colt Gatling gun is to go under the hammer at Heritage Auctions on June 8.
The impressive vintage weapon, which was the centrepiece of celebrated civil war re-enactor and arms aficionado Michael Yeck's collection for the past 40 years, is offered from the Yeck estate, following his death last year.
Heritage Auctions' Cliff Chapelle comments: "To call the Gatling gun one of the most spectacular and evocative weapons ever made understates its impact on the American psyche.
"The chance to acquire one of these spectacular guns, let alone one as well-preserved, as sizeable, and from such an impeccable source, does not come around very often, I can assure you that."
Yeck's grandson Matthew Hand explains that Yeck bought the gun in order to have a good time, as well as to promote his business and celebrate aspects of American history.
Hand states: "In the 1960s and 1970s [Yeck] was the largest black powder muzzle loading weapon supplier in the Midwest."
Yeck's impulse to collect is said to have been encouraged by his doctor, who told him in the 1960s that he must get himself a hobby in order to relax.
"He kinda went all out," Hand explains, "and decided to start his own firearms business, which kept growing and growing".
Duly, the present vintage Gatling is offered in full working order, with an estimate of $100,000+.
 Impressive: Yeck's 1883 Colt Gatling gun |
What's it like to fire one?
Hand insists: "You can feel every round… You can feel the pressure on your face."
The following day, a number of Henry rifles are also set to cross the block at Heritage.
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