Offered here is a stunning pair of Olaf Weiss signed consecutively serial numbered pair of master embellished Merkel over/under shotguns with "B" of the lot having three additional matching numbered barrel sets. The receivers feature fine full coverage engraved scrollwork, which extends to the break levers, trigger guards and forearm hardware. The beautiful hand detachable side lock plates showcase Weiss' talents as a master engraver, featuring a German shorthaired pointer with three pheasants flushing from an oak forest on the right side and a similar pointer with three mallards flushing from a riverbank on the left. Weiss has signed his masterpiece on the left side plates. The underside of the receivers are signed "GEBR. MERKEL" with the "SUHL" crest appearing on the exposed barrel lugs. The actions have single triggers, cocking indicators and manual tang safeties. The highly figured three piece forearms and pistol grip stocks exhibit fine multi-point checkering. The inside of the forearm hardware is jeweled and numbered to the respective gun. The buttstocks have plastic grip caps and serrated factory buttplates. Sling swivels are present. Additional scrollwork appears on the breech ends of each barrel set. The matching numbered 12 gauge barrel set to "A" has a forearm, matte solid rib, single bead sight, ejectors, 3 inch chambers and modified/improved modified chokes. Barrel measurements for "A" : both barrels proved and measured at 18.5mm, minimum wall thickness; O-.028:U-.034; Stock measurements for "A": drop at comb 1 3/8 inches, drop at heel 2 3/8 inches, length of pull 14 1/4 inches, weight 7 lbs. 4.8 oz.

Excellent, 97% plus showing some slight surface rust on the tang behind the trigger guard. The balance has only the slightest handling marks. Mechanically excellent. An excellent example of the finest engraving and craftsmanship that Merkel has to offer!

As described in "A" but with four barrel sets. Each matching numbered barrel set has a matte solid rib, ejectors and single bead sight. 27 inch 20 gauge barrel set: 2 3/4 inch chambers and improved cylinder chokes, both barrels proved and measured at 15.8mm, minimum wall thickness; O-.034:U-.034. 27 inch 28 gauge barrel set: 2 3/4 inch chambers and full chokes, both barrels proved and measured at 13.9mm, minimum wall thickness; O-.025:U-.027. 27 inch .410 bore barrel set: 2 3/4 inch chambers and improved modified/ chokes. 28 inch 16 gauge barrel set: 2 3/4 inch chambers and improved modified/modified chokes, both barrels proved and measured at 17.1mm, minimum wall thickness; O-.033:U-.031. There are two matching forearms. The barrel sets come with a case. Stock measurements: drop at comb 1 3/8 inches, drop at heel 2 3/8 inches, length of pull 14 1/4 inches, weight 7 lbs. 1 oz. with 20 ga. barrels.

Excellent 99% plus showing only the slightest handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The case is very fine showing some scattered minor wear. Provenance: Robert E. Petersen Collection