This lot includes a three page handwritten letter dating to 1935 from Ad Topperwein to John Olin, modern photographs of both gentlemen, a framed, typed introduction to the letter, and a framed, typed version of the letter that has been re-written for ease of reading. The framed introduction reads verbatim, “The featured letter displayed here was written by Ad Topperwein (an exhibition shooter for Winchester for many years) to John Olin (then Vice President of Winchester). At the time of this letter the newly developed but not yet produced M-70 was only months away from production. As the letter discusses several issues, it focuses on Mr. Topperweins suggested improvements to the M-54 to accommodate and possibly even include from the factory a telescopic sight. While its obvious that Ad Topperwein and John Olin must have had frequent communications, Ad Topperwein was not aware that the very improvements that he is suggesting be made to the M-54 has already been made and are only a couple months away from production in the form of the new M-70. In just over a year from the date of this letter the new M-70 is on store shelves.” The three page handwritten letter is in Good to Very Good condition, with moderate scattered edge tearing to the third page, some light scattered edge nicking and corner bending to the other two pages, and some scattered yellowing and discoloration throughout. The ink and coloring are strong and legible, and the first two pages are handwritten on “WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS COMPANY” stationery. This unique correspondence with the accompanying photos and framed documents will display nicely in any Winchester collection.
RIFLE