A fine James Wilkinson & Son turret revolver will star among antique arms on July 25
An exceptionally fine turret revolver produced by James Wilkinson & Son - better known as Wilkinson Sword - will auction as top lot in Bonhams' Antique Arms & Armour sale on July 25.
One of just seventeen produced by the esteemed gunsmiths
Therare 64-bore seven shot percussion "turret" revolver features a browned twist octagonal sighted barrel, and thesurface is finely engraved with foliate scrollwork. Bearingits maker's mark, with "no. 5158" marking its production number, it is believed that this is one ofonly 17 turret pistols that were made by the company, with the JW Cochran design mainly used for longarms. A similar pistol, which wasonce ownedby author and poetLord Egerton, is currently housed in the Royal Armouries at Leeds, UK.
The magnificent gun will be sold with a pre-sale valuation of 20,000-30,000, its value boosted by a full complement of accessories. Featuring the original lined and fitted mahogany case, the weapon is accompanied by a combined rammer and bullet mould, a Sykes three-way flask in fine condition and two flat case-hardened cylinders, each inscribed "Wilkinson & Son/8/Patent/5158". Also featuring in the London auction will be a spectacular sword-pistol, which once belonged to Lord Nelson's nefarious friend, Alexander Davison. With a pre-sale valuation of 10,000-15,000, the exciting piece provides a good opportunity for investors - the same item achieved 20,315 at Sotheby's in 2002. Paul Fraser Collectibles has some brilliant Lord Nelson memorabilia on offer, includingthis authentic lock of the admiral's hair, which is housed in a beautiful circular agate box. For more militaria news stories and the latest from the world of collecting, sign up to our free weekly newsletter.
