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LOT 316
Cased Pair of Engraved Westley Richards Percussion Belt Pistols -A) Westley Richards Belt Pistol - Serial no. 748, 68 cal., 6 1/2 inch octagon bbl., brown/casehardened/blue finish, checkered walnut stock. These c. 1840 pistols feature smoothbore barrels signed “WESTLEY RICHARDS, 170, NEW BOND ST., LONDON.”, double platinum banded patent breeches with pierced platinum plugs, bead and notch sights, swivel mounted ramrods, belt hooks on the left sides, “WESTLEY RICHARDS” signed on the locks, sliding safeties, primarily scroll and floral engraving, silver wedge and wrist escutcheons, checkered wrists, and small compartments in the pommel caps. The case has a Westley Richards trade label inside the lid, 17 bore ball mold, small powder flask, balls, cap container, wrench, and a cleaning rod.
CONDITION: Very fine with 85% plus brown, casehardened, and blue finish remaining; crisp markings and engraving, dark aged patina on the silver, and minimal overall wear. The stock is also very fine and has crisp checkering, some work by the belt hook base, and minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. The case and accessories are fine and have some minor age and storage related wear. B) Westley Richards Belt Pistol - Serial no. 748, 68 cal., 6 1/2 inch octagon bbl., brown/casehardened/blue finish, checkered walnut stock. See “A.” CONDITION: Very fine with 80% plus brown, casehardened, and blue finish; some rubbing on the lock, dark aged patina on the silver, repaired/replaced hammer, and minor marks and scratches. The stock is also very fine and has crisp checkering, light dings, and smooth finish. Mechanically excellent.
Provenance: The Richard P. Mellon Collection.
Estimate: 7,500 - 11,000