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Details
LOT 1438
Belgian Rimfire Pistol
LATE 19TH CENTURY A.D.
5 in. (127 grams, 12.5 cm).
An antique Belgian manufactured single-shot rimfire pocket pistol, the action with separately hinged loading gate and single action hammer with spur trigger; Liege proof marks.
Provenance
Acquired on UK art market; previously in a Nottinghamshire, UK, collection.
Ex property of a Nottinghamshire gentleman.
Footnotes
These small calibre, cheap and often quite crudely made pocket pistols (sometimes known as 'Saturday Night Specials') were popular in the later 19th century as weapons for personal defence; large numbers were made in Europe. Sold as an exempt item under Section 58 (2) of the Firearms Act, 1968, to be held as a curiosity or ornament. No license required but buyer must be over 18 years of age.
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