Collectors of antiques dream of finding rare weapons that have been exceptionally well-cared for. This concept is perhaps best represented by the term "one owner car" in the antique vehicle market; which invokes an antique lovingly protected by a single, faithful custodian over generations.
While the age difference prevents a direct "one owner" parallel in the antique gun world—firearms are centuries older than classic cars—the underlying search for sentiment remains. Collectors of antique weapons often seek out guns that have been held in the same family for generations or in a singular collection for decades.
The reasons for this preference are simple. Antiques kept "off the market" for a significant portion of their existence are generally more original and better preserved than those passed through numerous hands - the more owners an antique has had, the more likely it is that at least some of the subsequent owners may have attempted some degree of ill-advised "restoration," such as refinishing or part replacement, in a misguided attempt to "improve" their investment. However, in reality, it is the guns that are "untouched" and in good honest condition that command premium prices.
It is for this reason, that we are proud to present the guns from our latest acquisition, which directly speaks to the collector's dream: this collection was amassed by a single family in the 1920s and 1930s and was immediately placed into a museum, where it remained until we acquired it late last year. For nearly a century, these guns have been off the open market and under the professional care of a museum. This means the vast majority of these weapons are untouched and completely original; while those do show evidence of repair work, having had this work completed during the late 19th and early 20th Centuries! These are authentic time capsules, which we have chosen to present complete with their original, neatly applied museum ID numbers as a testament to their history. (The numbers can be easily removed with acetone, leaving no damage, but we believe they enhance the story.)
This unusual double barrel percussion pistol was made in Belgium for sale in the European market, as evidenced by a lack of any proof marks or maker's marks. Liege "ELG*" proof marks. Based on their overall styling, it was likely produced sometime during the 1840's to 1860s'. Museum records indicate that this was purchased at a shop in Mexico in 1930.
These types of pistols are sometimes referred as "boxlock" mechanisms, as their lock components are housed inside the gun's frame, rather than a traditional side-mounted lock. This particular pistols has two barrels, two hammers, and two triggers; allowing for twice the fire power compared to a traditional box lock pistol (an obvious advantage in a self defense situation).
Mechanically, this pistol is in good condition. Both hammers cock back and can be fired independently depending on which trigger is pulled. The spur of the left hammer has a crack in it.
The barrels are about 4" long and measure about .40 cal. The smoothbores of each barrel are in good shape with only minor surface rust and pitting. Each barrel is fired via its own percussion nipple; which are both in good shape.
The walnut grip shows numerous cracks, but is overall sound. It should be more than suitable for display; or could be easily repaired should the gun's new owner wish to shoot it.
As mentioned above, a museum inventory number can be found on the trigger guard which will easily be removed with acetone, should the gun's next owner choose to do so.
