GUN SPRING 2016
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/14/2016
PAIR OF WILLIAM MILLS OVER-UNDER BOXLOCK PERCUSSION HOLSTER PISTOLS IN CASE WITH ACCESSORIES. W. MILLS OU Holster Pistols 953 .530 Cal. .530 Bore diameter. Smooth bore. 5" Integral OU bbls with octagonal top sections, bottom sections fitted with rib, have bridled steel ramrods. Top flats are engraved "W. Mills Improv''d 120 Holborn London." (William Mills was at this address between 1822 and his death in 1837.) Robust boxlocks with scalloped backs, are fitted with flat faced lightly chamfered hammers with stylized dolphin heads. Lock portions are engraved with well cut large foliate scroll, within geometric borders. Dense European walnut stocks are near fully checkered. Bag grips terminate in engraved silver caps. Truncated rectangular vacant silver escutcheons are at top of each grip. SNs are stamped on broad bottom tangs. Fine quality mahogany case with inset folding D-ring circular handle has dual pivoting hook closure. Interior is lined in green baize, and contains a number of high quality accessories, including a very fine German silver top cylindrical bodied powder flask marked "Sykes Patent", ebony, rosewood, and brass loading rod, small horn patch case, rosewood handled small nipple key, and a nutcracker type ball mold marked "34". Covered compartments with brass knobs contain a tin of percussion caps, and a rosewood nipple case. PROVENANCE: The Spiropoulos Estate Collection. CONDITION: Very good, with all iron parts a mottled gray patina, with traces of what appears to be orig case color where protected. Stocks are very fine with some marks and small dents in checkering. Bores are very fine. Locks are crisp. Case exterior has an old over-varnish. Front edge has repaired crack across its entire length. Interior cloth is very fine, with some marks and rubs. Accessories are very fine to excellent. Pistols fit case exceptionally well. 49891-4 MGM28 (6,000-8,000)