September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/5/2023
Serial number places manufacture circa 1906; these pistols are discussed in depth in "Webley & Scott Automatic Pistols" by Gordon Bruce, pgs. 25-85. Small frame variation with fixed blade front sight on island, square notch rear sight integral to break open lever. Left side of barrel assembly marked " "WEBLEY FOSBERY" " above cylinder. Left side of frame with Webley & Scott winged bullet logo and "455 CORDITE", right side with serial number. "(Crown) / BV" proof on right side of frame near checkered walnut grip and on barrel near transition. "(Crown) / BP" proofs over each chamber, and on barrel near transition, opposite BV proof. Distinct and iconic zig-zag cuts in cylinder to advance cylinder during firing sequence. Solid holster guides. Hammer with checkering on thumbpiece and sides. Walnut grips with "SAFE" on a lab inset into left grip (only exposed when safety is positively engaged). Rotatable lanyard loop on stud mounted to butt. Full or partial serial numbers observed on frame, inside of frame under grips, some internal parts, rear face of cylinder, front face of barrel assembly, and both grip scales. Accompanied by some relevant Wikipedia articles printed out. PROVENANCE: From the advanced collection of the esteemed and respected Dr. Jim Watson of Scottsdale, Arizona. CONDITION: Very good, retaining the majority, approximately 60-70%, of the English high polish bluing, with some handling marks and dings, most noticeable on left side of frame at fore. Some silvering to high edges, mostly visible on rear of frame, top strap, and break-open lever. Barrel with scattered areas of loss, moreso than frame. Grip straps essentially a mixture of dove grey and brown toning, tending towards brown at rear strap. Grips are very good with typical handling marks throughout, right grip with heavier marks than right. Mechanically fine, bore is very good with strong rifling, some mild frosting, and a few light pits approximately halfway down. A good example of a scarce gun.