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 a separately hinged loading gate and single-action hammer with spur trigger; Liege proof marks; mechanism does not hold cock. [No Reserve]

Provenance

Acquired on UK art market; previously in a Nottinghamshire, UK, collection.
Ex property of a Nottinghamshire gentleman.
From the private collection of a Kent, UK, gentleman.

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.

Footnotes

These small calibre, cheap and often quite crudely made pocket pistols (sometimes known as 'Saturday Night Specials') were popular in the late 19th century as weapons for personal defence; large numbers were made in Europe.

CONDITION

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LOT 2422