September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/6/2023
Tippen and Lawden manufactured Sharps pistols in England under a trade agreement with Christian Sharps, and were one of few allowed to do so. This is a top quality example with the standard 4-barrel cluster engraved with checkered circular panels with sprays of tight English scroll on both the left and right sides, and muzzles dressed with stiff leaf engraving. Silver plated brass frame with nearly complete coverage of English scroll en suite with hatch shading; only vacant areas are on underside of frame, front strap, and either side of hammer. Typical Tipping & Lawden patent marks on frame. 2 piece checkered darkwood grips. Casecolored rotating firing pin, and fire-blued spur trigger. British proofs on barrels, with matching serials on frame and barrel cluster. Housed in a case with burl walnut lid and an inset heraldric shield and ribbon in lid. Case is lined in blue baize with compartments for pistol, oil bottle, turnscrew, and two other vacant compartments. CONDITION: Excellent. Retains virtually all of the original bluing on the barrels with some minor marks, including some superficial scratches and silvering to high edges. Retains the majority of the silver plate to frame, approximately 70-80%, with brass having a deep gold coloring. Hammer with virtually all of the case coloring, some marks from handling and articulation. Grips have sharp checkering and have shrunk slightly, most noticeable on heel of left scale. Engraving is crisp and well-cut. Case is very good with some handling and pressure marks, particularly to lid. Lining has depressions and rubs from age; some small liners appear replaced. Mechanically fine, bores with strong rifling and some mild pitting near breeches. An excellent example.
Accessories
Case, Screwdriver, Oiler
Manufacturer
Tippen & Lawden