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Lot 3255:Cased Pair of Engraved Back Action Percussion Pistols by Simmons

August 25th, 2024|Bedford, TX

Lot 3255:Cased Pair of Engraved Back Action Percussion Pistols by Simmons

August 25th, 2024|Bedford, TX

Price Realized:

Estimated Price$5,500 - $8,500

A) Simmons Percussion Pistol

These pistols likely came from Joseph Simmons (d. 1841), a gunmaker in Birmingham, and feature smoothbore Damascus barrels with post front sights, Birmingham proofs and "TO" on the undersides, casehardened breech plugs with dual platinum bands, notch rear sights on the casehardened standing breeches, "SIMMONS" signed on the casehardened back action locks, scroll engraving, swivel mounted ramrods, blued ramrod entry pipes and trigger guards, horn forend caps, and checkered bag shaped wrists. They come in a wood case with a J. Blissett trade label, oak leaf pattern three-way combination flask, 25 bore mold, screwdriver, tow, rod with covered worm, cap tin, and jag.

ConditionExcellent with 95% plus original finish, 95% vivid case colors on the platinum banded breech plug, some minor flaking of the blue, crisp engraving and markings, distinct Damascus twist patterns, and generally only minor age and storage related wear. The stock is also excellent and has crisp checkering and minimal light handling and storage marks. Mechanically excellent. The repaired case is fine and has some small chips and separation and contact wear on the lining. The accessories are fine.

Details

ManufacturerBritish

ModelPercussion

TypePistol

ClassAntique

Caliber / Gauge57

Barrel7 7/8 inch octagon

Finishbrown/casehardened/blue

Stockwalnut

Item LocationBedford, TX

Catalog page198

B) Simmons Percussion Pistol

Provenance: Property of a Distinguished Southern Clergyman

ConditionExcellent with 95% plus original finish, 95% vivid original case colors on the platinum banded breechplug, loss mostly from some flaking of the blue on the trigger guard tang, crisp engraving and markings, distinct Damascus twist patterns along the barrel, and minimal light age and storage related wear. The stock is also excellent and has crisp checkering and a few faint handling and storage marks. Mechanically excellent. Overall, this is a very attractive pair of English percussion pistols. They would have served a gentleman well for both defense and in a duel.