Manufactured in the last one hundred years, the only identification on the pistols is the name "Massrich" engraved behind the wheels. Though not confirmed, this may be an alternate spelling of Maastricht, a city currently part of the Netherlands. A significant strategic position which changed hands multiple times in history, it is currently most famous as the site of the signing of the Masstricht Treaty, which established the European Union and the Euro currency. Manufactured without sights, with an octagonal breech and a 16-sided transitional segment leading up to the round barrel. The lock plate is finely engraved with a floral pattern at the rear, featuring an open wheel with a single retention hook, a square jawed serpentine and a wedge-shaped trigger with integral spring. Fitted with a smooth full length ivory stock, which has a brass capped ivory ramrod, steel trigger guard and ramrod pipe, a subtly raised curved border highlighting the reverse of the lock, and a fluted pommel. Both pistols in the lot are contained in a hardwood case, 22 1/4 inches wide and 10 inches long, with a fine wire inlaid floral pattern around a blank inscription oval, German silver edge reinforcement with silver corner caps, floral key escutcheon and a green felt lined interior with two ivory handled lidded compartments and a combination spanner, screwdriver and ball carrier. Provenance: The William Ashby Collection

Very good with a mixed brown and gray patina on the barrel, smooth gray lock and hardware, and scattered minor spotting and handling marks. The stock is very fine, with a small repair opposite the wheel housing, minimal age cracking, and a beautiful grain and color. Mechanically untested. The case is good, with some minor cracks and dings.

As "A", in case with "A". Provenance: The William Ashby Collection

Very good, with a mixed brown and gray patina on the barrel, lock plate and hardware. The stock is good with a small mended chip on the left forearm tip, scattered age cracks and superb grain and aged color. Mechanically untested. A top-rate pair of attractive full ivory stocked wheel lock pistols.