I just went and looked at the auction again for the C. W. Hart rifle. Here's what it says in the description.
"Condition
Very fine overall as custom made with beautiful antiqued finish throughout with mild texture, aged patina on the silver, attractive but subtle engraving, very fine carving, and mild wear from use and/or antiquing. Mechanically excellent."
Just one more reason to be careful at auctions. I suspect they were not being deceptive on purpose but an in person inspection prior to the auction might have been the only way to avoid a costly mistake. So lucky on my part not winning this one at least at the price I thought it was worth.