Offered here is a rarity in modern shotgun collecting, noted for the engraver and original owner. This extraordinary Holland & Holland Royal Deluxe shotgun was embellished by Master Engraver Philippe Grifnee and was made specifically for noted publisher, sportsman, and firearms collector Robert E. Petersen. The frame, trigger guard, tangs, break leaver and forearm hardware feature full coverage relief engraved scrollwork. Engraved game birds are incorporated in the scrollwork on the front sides of the frame. Both sides of the frame are relief engraved "HOLLAND & HOLLAND." The underside of the frame and side plates exhibit beautiful banknote style engraved bird dog game vignettes. Belgian Master Engraver Philippe Grifnee has signed his masterpiece near the single trigger. A true master of his trade, Grifnee was known for his relief engraving and was employed by Holland & Holland. He set the standard for modern day firearm art and was internationally recognized as one of the world's finest engravers. This shotgun definitely testifies to Grifnee's unmatched skills. Sadly, Grifnee passed away at the age of 59 in May 2012, leaving behind true works of firearm art, like this example, that continue to influence the trade. The breech end of the barrels feature simple gold inlaid scroll accented lines. The serial number is relief engraved on the lower tang. Matching serial numbers are found on the lower tang, frame, forearm and barrels. The action features an automatic safety. Two British "crown/GP" proofs are stamped on the frame. Mounted on a highly figured and finely checkered forearm and pistol grip stock with a horn grip cap and checkered bare butt. The underside of the buttstock has an initial oval marked "REP" for Robert E. Petersen. Following his World War II service with the U.S. Army Air Forces, Robert Petersen started "Hot Rod," a magazine for car enthusiasts, and went on to build Petersen Publishing. When he sold his publishing empire in 1996, Petersen Publishing printed 39 monthly periodicals which included such notables as "Hot Rod," "Guns & Ammo," "Sports Afield," and "Motor Trend." Petersen was also an avid outdoorsman and firearm collector. He hunted on nearly all seven continents, was credited for being the first person to shoot a polar bear with a .44 magnum handgun and served as Commissioner of Shooting Sports during the 1984 Olympics held in Los Angeles. His lifelong collection of 425 firearms was donated to the National Firearms Museum after his death. This impressive and broad collection of rare and historic arms fills the permanent 2,000 square foot Petersen Gallery that was opened to the public in the fall of 2010 at the NRA Museum. The gallery boasts the largest collection of double rifles and Gatling guns on public display and guns owned by notable individuals such John F. Kennedy, Annie Oakley, Robert Stack, Julian Hatcher, Hermann Goering and Elmer Keith. Although the Petersen Gallery showcases a diverse collection, there is one common theme: highest quality. In fact, the Petersen Gallery is considered to be one of the finest sporting arms collections in the world. Very few guns from Petersen's collection have made it to private hands. The included factory letter and ledger sheet list it as manufactured in 1996 for Robert E. Petersen as a .410 Royal Deluxe with 28 inch barrels modified chokes, 3 inch chambers, game rib, deluxe walnut stock with Prince of Wales grip, deluxe game scene engraving, "ENGRAVED OVAL REP IN STYLE WHICH SUITES GUN BEST," 14 1/8 inch stock length at center, 1 1/2 by 2 1/4 inch butt, 5 lbs. 5 oz. weight, and dark brown leather case with red lining and tools. The ledger sheet also lists the engraving cost of 52,000 British pounds at the time, which gives an idea of the considerable cost even then to produce such a work of art. Given the exchange rate at the time and inflation, this cost would easily exceed $100,000 in today's money, for the engraving alone! Barrel and stock measurements are: choked improved modified/improved modified; length of chamber 3 inches; length of pull 14 inches; drop at comb 1 3/8 inches; drop at heel 2 1/8 inches; cast on/cast off neutral; toe in/toe out neutral; and overall weight 5 lbs 5.6 oz. Comes with a takedown case featuring a Holland & Holland label on the interior of the lid and containing a pair of snap caps, two-piece cleaning rod with three attachments, Holland & Holland cleaning patches and cloth, case key and oiler.

Near new showing the slightest handling marks overall. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine showing discolored leather and some minor handling/storage marks. This is a beautiful work of investment grade firearm art by world renowned Master Engraver Philippe Grifnee with the added bonus of being specifically made for noted publishing mogul Robert E. Petersen. This shotgun will make a great addition to any sporting arms collection!