Could Jesse James strike again? $5,000 pistol set for auction

Collectors look poised to fight over the gun James bought in 1879 to celebrate his daughter's birth

A rare collectible once handled by US outlaw Jesse James is among the highlights of SoldUSA.com's militaria online auction, which ends on September 24.

The Hopkins & Allen Ranger No2 nickel-plated .32 calibre Smith & Wesson single-action pistol, which has a $5,000 starting bid, was once owned by Zerelda "Zee" James, the wife of Jesse James.

According to legend, Jesse bought the pocket pistol for Zee in 1879 - the same year the gun was produced - to commemorate the birth of their daughter, Mary.

Jesse James has a history of capturing the collecting public's attention.

The only known signed photograph of James sold for $51,240 at a Leslie Hindman Auctioneers sale in Chicago this April.

The auction also has something for collectors of television memorabilia.

A lot comprising the 1950s-era shirt, bolo tie, guns and holsters worn by Duncan Renaldo, the actor who portrayed the Cisco Kid in the hit TV series, is sure to be of interest to many.

'It's a girl!'

An 1840-1850 British Tower Cavalry horse pistol, with swivel ramrod (which denotes cavalry use), could also attract the punters.

The lockplate is marked "Tower" and has the crown emblem. It is a stunning example of a large calibre horse pistol from the glory days of British military combat.

"By the time it's over this could very well be the biggest auction we've ever had," said David Reichle of SoldUSA.com.

More than 2,000 lots will go under the hammer, and you can read all about the results here at Paul Fraser Collectibles next month.

• Click here to view our Medals and Militaria for sale
• Learn how you can get pleasure and profit by investing in antique firearms
• Read all the latest Medals and Militaria news

Join our readers in over 200 countries around the world - sign up for your free weekly Collectibles Newsletter today or download our free Collectors News app for your iPhone

Recent and related articles...

·  $25,000 Henry Repeating Rifle shoots high at Amoskeag's antique firearms auction | 4 August 2011

The fascinating weapon - one of a huge number of fine pieces offered - is very rare in this condition

·  Beautiful but deadly... Our Top Five most visually striking antique handguns | 20 July 2011

Aside from a sense of history, sometimes the elegance of collectible shooters is remarkable

·  $21,100 dueling pistols aim high in auction of vintage firearms and militaria | 4 July 2011

Taking place at Kunst und Waffenkammer, it will be unmissable for collectors of antique guns

·  Antique pistol crafted by the Prince of Wales' gunmaker to go off with a bang | 19 April 2011

The well-preserved weapon will sell alongside an impressive American officer's sword

·  Bang! Bang! Collectors seek satisfaction at Bonhams' auction of duelling pistols | 7 April 2011

The selection of beautiful and deadly antiques goes up for sale in their Arms and Armour auction

www.paulfrasercollectibles.com

Image: SoldUSA.com