Collectors and dealers alike descended upon Great Falls for an energetic weekend during Western Art Week, highlighted by a record-breaking sale at the Elk’s Lodge for the 39th Annual March in Montana Auction. The event once again demonstrated the enduring strength of the Western art market, drawing participation from seasoned collectors alongside new buyers eager to acquire exceptional works. Competitive bidding, high energy, and a fast-paced atmosphere defined the sale from start to finish.
Scalp Hunters by Charles M. Russell (1864-1926)
A standout moment came with Scalp Hunters by Charles M. Russell. The 1906 watercolor, cataloged in the C.M.R. Raisonné and estimated at $40,000–$60,000, soared to an impressive $242,000, selling to a Montana collector and marking one of the most notable results of the weekend.
The Bull Elk by Charles M. Russell (1864-1926)
Another Russell work, Bull Elk, executed in mixed media, also performed exceptionally well, achieving $90,750 against a $10,000–$15,000 estimate.
Leopard by Bob Kuhn (1920-2007)
Wildlife art proved equally strong, led by important works from Bob Kuhn. Leopard, an acrylic, realized $42,350, while Cheetah on a Kill, an 18″ x 26″ acrylic with notable provenance, brought $57,475.
John Armstrong Flintlock Kentucky Long Rifle
Historic arms and important Americana also contributed to the auction’s success. A John Armstrong flintlock Kentucky long rifle—recognized as the work of one of the foremost artisans of the golden age—achieved $60,500, exceeding its $30,000–$50,000 estimate. Meanwhile, The Quilting Bee by Charles Wysocki, a charming 38″ x 32″ oil, realized $43,400, surpassing expectations.
The Broncho Buster by Frederic Remington (1861-1909)
Sculpture was particularly strong, led by Frederic Remington’s iconic bronze The Broncho Buster. With strong provenance and authentication, the piece significantly outperformed its $40,000–$60,000 estimate, realizing $102,850. A rare Russell bronze, Range Father, also performed well, bringing $42,350.
The auction realized $3.2 million in total sales, with an impressive 95% sell-through rate, underscoring the strength and depth of demand across categories. Notably, 33% of participating buyers were from Montana, reflecting the continued importance of local collectors alongside a strong national audience.
Looking ahead, 2027 marks the 40th Anniversary of the March in Montana Auction, and we look forward to celebrating with an exceptional offering of important and carefully curated works for our clients.
About March in Montana
March in Montana is a premier auction and art event dedicated to showcasing the best in Western, Wildlife, and Native American art. Held annually in Great Falls, the sale attracts collectors from across the country, offering a diverse selection of ine art, bronzes, and historical artifacts. For more information, visit www.marchinmontana.com, or contact us at 208-664-2091.