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LOT 3289
Attractive Engraved and Silver Inlaid Sequential Pair of
Dreyse Needle Fire Self-Cocking Revolvers with Case -A)
Engraved and Silver Inlaid Dreyse Needle Fire Revolver
- Serial no. 11054, 8 mm cal., 3 1/4 inch octagon bbl., blue finish, walnut grips.
Manufactured c. 1864-1872, the Dreyse needle fire system ranks among the first practical cartridge-based small
arms system, serving as the bridge between the paper percussion cartridges before and the fully contained
centerfire cartridges that would become the gold standard from the 19th century to the modern day. Both
pistols in this grouping are marked, decorated and configured identically, save for the serial number; “11054” on A,
“11055” on B, marked on the left side of the frame. Fixed sights, with “F.v. DREYSE A SOMMERDA” on the topstrap, “Cal: 0,30” 3 Cent 3K. Pulv.” on
the right, and fine scroll engraving on the sides of the frame, breech, and the triggerguard. The firing
mechanism travels in an octagon section of the frame, which is embellished with silver wire geometric
patterns. Fitted with a checkered pistol grip with lanyard ring. Included with the lot is an attractive
modern custom made hardwood case with leather covered exterior panels, brass reinforcement, and red
velvet inner lining, with space for both pistols.
CONDITION: Very fine as professionally restored, with 95% plus attractive blue finish, with a few spots of plum
patina, minor handling marks, and sharp detail in the engraving and inlay. The grip is very fine, with some
minor dents. Mechanically excellent. Case is excellent, with minor wear. B) Engraved and Silver Inlaid Dreyse Needle Fire
Revolver - Serial no. 11055, 8 mm cal., 3 1/4 inch octagon bbl., blue finish, walnut grips. As described in A.
CONDITION: Very fine as professionally restored, 98% plus high quality blue finish, with minor handling marks and fine detail in the decoration. The grip is very fine, with a
few dings. Mechanically excellent.
Provenance: The Collection of Clive Cussler.
Estimate: 4,500 - 6,500
LOT 3290
Rare Engraved Westley Richards Patent Self-Cocking Percussion Revolver - Serial no. 200, 80 bore
cal., 4 1/4 inch octagon bbl., blue finish, walnut grips. This revolver is based on Westley Richards’s patent no. 14027
of March 20, 1852, (mechanism) and no. 993 of May 3, 1854, (rack and pinion rammer). They are amongst the rarest
of the British percussion revolvers with a total production of only 323 five-shot revolvers recorded. This revolver
was completed in circa 1854-55. The octagonal barrel is signed “WESTLEY RICHARDS. 170. NEW BOND ST. LONDON
(PATENTEE)”. The cylinder has London proof marks and “200”.
“200” is also marked on the lower tang. The checkered “saw-
handle” style grip has a compartment in the cap.
CONDITION: Very good overall with 95% plus period
refinished blue remaining, distinct engraving and checkering,
pitting, and mild wear. The cylinder occasionally gets out of time,
but the revolver otherwise mechanically functions.
Estimate: 2,500 - 4,000