Quigley Down Under, the 1990 Australian Western, captivated audiences with its stunning cinematography and the compelling story of sharpshooter Matthew Quigley. Central to the film is Quigley's custom-made 1874 Sharps rifle, a beautiful and historically significant weapon. This article delves into the value of this iconic rifle, both in the context of the movie and its real-world counterpart. We'll explore the factors affecting its value, examine similar firearms, and provide you with a deeper understanding of this fascinating piece of cinematic and historical history.
Understanding the Quigley Down Under Rifle
The rifle depicted in Quigley Down Under is a meticulously crafted replica of a real 1874 Sharps rifle, specifically a .45-70 caliber model. It's characterized by its long barrel, octagonal barrel shape, and high level of accuracy. This isn't just a prop; it's a functional firearm, though it was likely modified for safety and filming purposes.
Key Features Contributing to Value (Both Real and Movie Replica)
- Caliber: The .45-70 Government cartridge is a powerful and historically significant round, making the rifle attractive to collectors.
- Barrel Length: Longer barrels generally equate to increased accuracy and range, a highly sought-after feature.
- Condition: The condition of any firearm significantly impacts its value. A pristine, well-maintained rifle will command a much higher price than a damaged or worn one.
- Originality: For real 1874 Sharps rifles, authenticity and provenance are paramount. A documented history tracing its ownership and condition will significantly boost value.
- Movie Association: The movie prop, assuming its origin and history are verifiable, would have a dramatically increased value solely because of its appearance in a famous film. This is an element of collectible value separate from the intrinsic value of a similar real firearm.
Real-World 1874 Sharps Rifle Value
The value of an original 1874 Sharps rifle varies enormously based on condition, modifications, and provenance. A well-preserved example in excellent condition can fetch tens of thousands of dollars, even hundreds of thousands in exceptional cases. Factors influencing the price include:
- Grade: Grading systems for antique firearms are used to assess their condition. Higher grades indicate better condition and higher value.
- Authenticity: Verifying the rifle's originality through documentation, expert appraisals, and historical research is critical for determining value.
- Accessories: Original accessories such as sights, cases, and cleaning kits increase the value of the firearm.
The Movie Prop's Value: An Unquantifiable Asset
Determining the value of the actual movie prop used in Quigley Down Under is difficult, if not impossible, without knowing its current ownership status and willingness to sell. Its value is largely speculative, but it's safe to say it would be considerably higher than any original 1874 Sharps rifle. This is due to its unique history and status as a piece of Hollywood memorabilia. Factors affecting its value include:
- Screen-Used Status: Being confirmed as an actual prop from the film would massively boost its value.
- Condition After Filming: The firearm's condition after filming would naturally affect its worth.
- Chain of Custody: A verifiable and documented history of the prop's ownership would greatly increase its value.
Comparing Similar Firearms
Collectors interested in similar firearms might explore other high-quality 1874 Sharps rifles or similar lever-action rifles from the period. While these won't carry the same cinematic weight, they offer a path to owning a piece of history:
| Rifle Model | Caliber | Approximate Value Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1874 Sharps | .45-70 | $10,000 - $100,000+ | Varies greatly depending on condition & provenance |
| 1873 Winchester | .44-40 | $500 - $10,000+ | Value depends heavily on condition and model |
| 1866 Winchester | .44-40 | $500 - $5,000+ | Less valuable than the 1873, but still collectible |
Conclusion
The Quigley Down Under gun holds a unique place in cinematic and firearm history. While the value of a real 1874 Sharps rifle is considerable and depends on various factors, the movie prop's value is largely speculative but undoubtedly significantly higher due to its association with the film. Understanding the factors that determine the value of both real and movie firearms allows collectors and enthusiasts to appreciate the historical and cultural significance of this iconic weapon.