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LOT 1152
Exceptional Possibly Finest Known Cased, Exhibition Quality Factory Engraved Tipping & Lawden Model 1A Pepperbox Pistol - Serial no. 1189,
22 RF cal., 2 5/8 inch fluted bbl., blue/silver finish, gutta percha grips. Tipping & Lawden of Birmingham, England, were one of only two firms licensed
to manufacture Sharps pistols abroad. This pistol is one of only around 2,000 Model 1 pistols manufactured by the firm. In the 1860s to early 1870s. It is certainly among the most ornate and finest condition Tipping & Lawden pistols extant and has nearly full coverage scroll engraving on the silver plated frame which is marked “TIPPING & LAWDEN/SHARPS PATENT” in a circle around the hammer screw on the right. The bright royal blue barrel has an engraved border at the muzzles, scrollwork around textured grip panels on the sides, and additional scrollwork at the breech. The grips have coordinating floral scroll patterns. The pistol comes in an E.M. Reilly & Co. retailer case with an oiler, screwdriver, and cleaning rod.
CONDITION: Excellent. The barrels retain 98% plus of the original bright high polish blue finish, the hammer displays vibrant original case colors, and the frame retains virtually all of the original silver plating which has a lightly aged patina. There is some edge wear primarily at the muzzle and some light handling and storage marks. The grips are fine with minor handling wear, dark black tone on the right, and lightly aged tone on the left grip which faces out when in the case. Mechanically excellent. The engraving and markings throughout are crisp. This is easily one of the most attractive Tipping & Lawden pistols we have ever offered at auction and would be nearly impossible to improve upon.
Estimate: 14,000 - 22,500
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