Good research Eric!
Since the M1878 Sharps-Borchardt rifle was manufactured between 1878-1881, and that check is dated from May 1877, it is a very strong possibility that the signature is his while we was working at the Sharps factory. As the American factory owners were always known to be tight asses without recognizing better improvements, it probably explains why Hugo Borchardt left the US to continue his work in Germany ;-)
If a collector wants to own something connected to HB, this might be a good item to win at a reasonable price. I would like to one day see a photo of HB if such a photo can be verified.
Best wishes,
Albert
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