Lots go off with a bang

By William Gregory MRICS, Golding Young and Mawer.

There was no missing the target when five pistols recently came up for auction. Although the likelihood that these lots will ever be fired again is remote, they certainly found their mark at the saleroom.

First to be aimed was a Georgian flintlock sea service long pistol with an overall length of 50cm, with a chromed GR tower lock, barrel bearing proof marks, long spring belt hooked side, and a stock with a brass cracker pommel; a superior combination of features attracting multiple bidders and sold for £700.

For anyone looking for a more intimidating firearm, an early C19th 54 bore four-barrelled flintlock ‘duck’s foot’ pistol by Bass & Co., London looked like an attention-seeker from the start. Decorated with stamped barrels, engraved box lock with military flags and drums motifs, together with a plain walnut grip. This formidable pistol saw the bidding shoot up to £3,200.

At a later auction, a C19th flintlock duelling pistol achieved £320, although with only one pistol it wasn’t much of a contest! Late to the party, was an C18th flintlock boxlock muff pistol, stamped Manton London, which made £400 at the auction.

Finally, bidders were left wondering about the history of a C19th percussion hammer lady’s muff pistol, which found a new owner at £110. Once again, bidders left the auction ‘Locked and Loaded’.

Full details and results of all the lots sold can be found at www.goldingyoung.com

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