Share this page
Bonhams to auction hidden English antique pistol collection
A significant collection of antique English pistols is to be auctioned at Bonhams
Paul Fraser Collectibles, Wednesday 4 April 2012
More Militaria news | View our stock for sale | Learn about our 120% Guarantee | Download our iPhone app | Sign-up for your Free Newsletter
A hidden collection of pistols has come to light following the announcement of Bonhams Antique Arms and Armour sale on April 18, 2012.
 The pistols belonging to Sir James Hope Grant |
The pistols were collected by Norman H. Dixon, who passed away in 2011. The collector, who was described as a "discreet but distinguished" enthusiast of antique arms, published the book Georgian Pistols, The Art and Craft of the Flintlock Pistol, 1715-1840, in 1971.
There are 30 exquisite and historically significant pistols in the collection, ranging in price from £1,000-60,000. Perhaps the most exciting lot is a beautiful pair of silver-mounted flintlock duelling pistols, believed to have belonged to General Sir James Hope Grant. General Grant served with distinction in the first Opium War and rose to Major General during the suppression of the Indian Mutiny. Made in 1768, the pair are estimated to sell at £25,000-35,000.
The lot expected to achieve the highest sale price is a fine pair of 18-bore holster pistols which were presented to Sir John Rushout, a former Member of Parliament. They were given as a gift to the "Father of the House" following his retirement from the House of Commons in 1768.
The exquisite design of these pistols features delicate silver inlays and engraving, with depictions of the Greek goddess Diana and Achteon from Ovid's Metamorphoses. They are expected to make £40,000-60,000 at auction in London later this month.
Paul Fraser Collectibles has a range of historically significant militaria for those looking to invest in British military history; this Oliver Cromwell Signature represents a controversial figure in the English Civil War.
Recent and related articles
· Albert Chandler Civil War Journals offer collectors a piece of American history | 12 February 2012
· Stephen Flood's militaria & antiques collection starring Russian icons | 8 February 2012
· Unseen Churchill Boer photograph 'after prison escape' auctions in UK | 6 February 2012
Your collecting
View our stock items for sale | How to start a collection
Guides and analysis
Investing in Militaria | 10 reasons to invest in collectibles | Market information & demographics
www.paulfrasercollectibles.com
Images: Bonhams
