Ithaca Grade 5E NID 16 gauge – RARE, FACTORY METAL FINISHES, GOLD INLAY

Few American side-by-sides capture the elegance and collector appeal of a high-grade Ithaca NID, and this Grade 5E, serial number 455777, is an outstanding example. Manufactured in 1929, this gun remains in exceptional condition and displays the quality, finish, and fine detailing that place the Grade 5E among Ithaca’s most sought-after offerings. Only 155 NID Grade 5 guns were ever made. Based on some research, approximately 37 were made in 16 gauge, making this a rare find.

The gun exhibits beautifully executed factory engravings with attractive pheasant and woodcock gold inlays on each side as well as the eagle holding arrows and Made in USA engravings on the bottom of the frame. The receiver retains vibrant pockets of its original case color, especially on the trigger plate, under the lever and in the knurling forward of the lever.  Interestingly, the case color has held strong in the “sky” of the picture panels of game scene engraving, adding to their depth and beauty.  Where the case color has faded, a rich patina has developed.   Deep wavy grain and feather crotch American walnut featuring deeply cut Fleur de Lis checkering gives the piece the look and presence expected of a best-quality American sporting arm.  This capable sporting shotgun has a couple of areas showing honest use, but no structural issues.  You’ll notice a tiny repair of a nick where the wrist meets the middle of the stock, and some light impressions in the wood and checkering.   A few features, its vent rib, ebony tipped forearm, a tiny patch of checkering on the trigger, and mirror bores further enhance its appeal to knowledgeable collectors.

Original, high-condition NID Grade 5E guns are rarely encountered on today’s market, particularly in this level of preservation. This is a superb opportunity to acquire a scarce and highly desirable Ithaca double that checks all the boxes.  Please review all photographs and specifications, as they form an important part of the description.