October 30 - November 2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria, & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2018
This finely crafted mechanical masterpiece dates circa 1780 and features four round brass barrels, all engraved with numbers "1", "2", "3" and "4". Faceted breeches also numbered and bottoms stamped with London proof marks. All panels engraved with detailed borders. Scalloped brass boxlock action, right side engraved with scrolls and a banner inscribed "J PROBIN"; left side features scrolls and a banner engraved "LONDON". This tap action mechanism allows one, two or all four barrels to be fired by using the rotating selector on the left side. The right side of the action features a switch, which engages a sliding cover over the pan on the right hand side. The top of the action features a sliding half cock thumb safety which also has a pin that secures the frizzen in the closed position. All steel components are also decorated with detailed borders and Acanthus leaf designs. Figured walnut grip featuring a sterling silver grotesque mask buttcap hallmarked for silversmith Charles Freeth and stamped with date letter for 1784. On the top of the wrist is an engraved silver oval wrist escutcheon. CONDITION: Very good. All steel and brass surfaces have been polished in the European manner. Engraving and markings are excellent. A few scattered marks from use overall. This is a very high quality pistol with crisp mechanics. PROVENANCE: Theodore Heske Jr. Collection.
Barrel Length
All 3 - 5/8"