GUN FALL 2017
The live portion of this session begins on Tuesday, October 31, 2017.
FINE TUSCO-EMILIAN 38 BORE SNAPHAUNCE HOLSTER PISTOL ITALIAN SNAPHAUNCE NSN 38 BORE Cal 38 bore 0.50". This elegant Central Italian pistol circa 1770 measures 15-1/4" overall with 10" multi-stage bbl with relief engraving en suite to engraved lock and battery. Frizzen is chiseled in shape of a gaping dragon. Gun is brass mounted with engraved and pierced mounts with three silver inset faces on thumbplate, buttcap and trigger guard. Stock is finely relief carved with geometric, figural and a coat of arms consisting of castle above a star in a 1-3/4" oval. This gun is not far removed from aesthetics and quality and compares to the pair shown on page 61 of Merrill Lindsay's text 100 Great Guns, 1967. CONDITION: Fine overall. Gun appears complete and orig. Steel is overall gray patina with staining and pitting especially at breech. Brass mounts retain traces of gilt in protected areas. Silver masks are very good with good detail, some wear to high areas and scuffing as expected. Stock has hand-worn patina, sharp edges and well discerned light incised decoration. 4" belt hook is complete. Mechanically cock will not hold otherwise fine, smooth pitted bore. 52632-17 JS (5,000-7,000)