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LOT 277
Cased Pair of Engraved William & Samuel Rooke Flintlock Dueling
Pistols -A) W. & S. Rooke Dueling Pistol - NSN, 54 cal., 9 inch octagon
bbl., brown/casehardened/blue finish, walnut stock. William & Samuel Rooke were gunmakers in Birmingham in 1820-37 per Blackmore’s “Gunmakers of London, 1350-1850.” Like many Birmingham gunmakers, they marked their
guns “LONDON.” These pistols were very likely designed for dueling given their combination of features but also could have filled other roles for a gentleman. The smoothbore Damascus barrels on this pair are marked “LONDON” on top
and have dovetailed silver blade front sights. The breeches have fixed notch
rear sights and martial and floral engraving. The advanced locks are signed “W
& S ROOKE” and have sliding safeties, frizzen spring rollers, scroll engraving, and semi-waterproof pans. They are also equipped with adjustable single set triggers, mostly blued furniture with floral and martial themed engraving, and blank silver thumb escutcheons. The barrels are secured to the stocks with two wedges, and the stocks have checkered wrists with molded borders, nicely formed flats, and smooth oiled finish. The case is unmarked and features 5 compartments. CONDITION: Very fine overall with distinct Damascus patterns on the barrel,
mild pitting concentrated around the vent, strong original case colors on the lock and breech, 60% plus bright original blue finish remaining on the furniture, aged patina on the silver, and mild overall wear. The stock is very fine and has crisp checkering, light scratches and pressure marks, and smooth finish. The set trigger could use adjustments, and the lock is mechanically excellent.
B) W. & S. Rooke Dueling Pistol - NSN, 54 cal., 9 inch octagon bbl., brown/ casehardened/blue finish, walnut stock. See A.
CONDITION: Fine with distinct Damascus patterns along the barrel, oxidation and pitting concentrated at the vent, strong original case colors on the lock and breech, aged patina on the silver, 30% original blue finish
on the furniture, and mild overall wear. The stock has a period repaired break visible in the
forend, well-done splice at the tail
of the lock, general light
scratches and dings, crisp checkering, and smooth finish. The
set trigger could use adjustments, and the lock is mechanically excellent. The case is very good with mild storage wear, including some torn lining. This is a very attractive set by a comparably rarely seen maker.
Estimate: 9,000 - 15,000