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  • Auction Catalog #65
  • Lot #1161
Lot #1160
Lot #1162

Lot 1161: Pair of Engraved and London Marked Iron Frame Percussion Muff Pi

Pair of Engraved and London Marked Iron Frame Percussion Muff Pistols with "Bag Style" Silver Grips

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: September 11, 2015

Lot 1161: Pair of Engraved and London Marked Iron Frame Percussion Muff Pi

Pair of Engraved and London Marked Iron Frame Percussion Muff Pistols with "Bag Style" Silver Grips

Auction Location: Rock Island, IL

Auction Date: September 11, 2015

Estimated Price: $4,750 - $6,000
Price Realized:
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A) English Pocket Pistol

Manufacturer: English
Model: Percussion
Type: Pistol
Gauge: 31 percussion
Barrel: 2 1/2 inch part octagon
Finish: bright
Grip: silver
Stock:
Item Views: 2218
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 83
Class: Antique
Description:

This pair of early 19th century pocket or "muff" pistols have stepped canon style barrels marked "London" on the lower right flat below the bolster. The upper flats, action, and one piece silver grips have floral scroll engraving. There are bestial faces behind the grip tangs, and there are sliding safeties behind the hammers. These small caliber compact pistols were popular defensive weapons among ladies in the 19th century. It is believed that some women carried them in their fur hand warmers or "muffs" hence the name. These and larger caliber pocket pistols were often carried by gentlemen as protection against highwaymen.

Rating Definition:

Very good as period converted to percussion. There are traces of case colors on the hammer and otherwise a gray patina with light pitting on the barrel and action. The grip is very good with an aged patina (particularly dark on the left side) and slightly loose fit. The safety does not appear to engage, but the action is fine. The markings and designs are clear.



B) English Pocket Pistol

Manufacturer: English
Model: Percussion
Type: Pistol
Gauge: 31 percussion
Barrel: 2 1/2 inch part octagon
Finish: bright
Grip: silver
Stock:
Item Views: 2218
Serial Number:
Catalog Page: 83
Class: Antique
Description:

As discussed in A.

Rating Definition:

Good as period converted to percussion. There are traces of case colors on the hammer and otherwise a gray patina with pitting on the barrel and action. The pitting is rough near the bolster. The grip is very good with an aged patina which is darker on the left side at the breech. The safety does not appear to engage, but the action is fine. The markings and designs are clear.



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