The maker’s records confirm that this rifle was ordered on January 2, 1884 for Rogers & Co. who were the agents for His Highness The Nizam of Hyderabad and with a note to “Pair with 7904”. With browned damascus barrels with raised partially matted rib with bead front sight with flip-up moon sight, standing rear sight calibrated to “50” yards and with platinum inlaid center line, the rib with doll’s head extension engraved with a shell and numbered “2” and signed “HOLLAND & HOLLAND. 98. NEW BOND ST. LONDON” at the mid-point. Barrels and action struck with London black powder proof marks. Casehardened action with carved percussion fences and engraved “CHARGE 9 DRAMS CASE 3 3/4 INCHES” on the left side and numbered “2” on the upper tang. Casehardened rebounding back action locks each signed “HOLLAND & HOLLAND”, and sprung front trigger. Border and scroll engraved throughout. Well figured pistol grip stock with raised cheekpiece, checkered grip and forearm, and with silver inlaid rack number “5” to the left side of the butt behind the cheekpiece. With brass cornered oak and elephant hide fitted case with accessories, the lid with Holland & Holland trade label. A copy of the maker’s record entry for this rifle accompanies this lot as well as documents on the accessories.

Barrels have been expertly rebrowned, engraving and signature crisp, the rear sight is a modern replacement. Action and locks retaining 20% faded original casehardened finish, engraving clear, some discoloration. Stock refinished with some oil soak evident around the action, a repair on the right side of the stock head, checkering slightly flattened. Recent case in fine condition. Mechanically excellent. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.