The Only Known Cased Superimposed Load Pistol to be Sold at Bonhams’ Arms & Armour Auction

Exceptionally Fine And Rare Cased 15-Bore Percussion Four-Shot Superimposed Load Officer's Pistol © Bonhams — © Bonhams

A remarkable find in the world of antique firearms, a cased 15-bore percussion four-shot superimposed load officer’s pistol, believed to be the only one of its kind, will take center stage at Bonhams’ upcoming auction of Antique Arms & Armour in London. The auction, which will also include items from the esteemed Per T. Norheim Collection and Modern Sporting Guns, is scheduled to run online from May 13 to May 22 on Bonhams.com

The pistol, dating back to circa 1830 and still preserved in its original fitted case, is estimated to fetch between £15,000 to £20,000. Its exceptional rarity and historical significance have already garnered significant attention from collectors and enthusiasts alike.

David Williams, Director of Bonhams’ Arms and Armour department, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming sale, stating, “The spring sale of arms and armour presents an exciting array of arms history from a Viking sword dating as far back as the late 10th century to modern sporting guns. We’re pleased to also present a selection of works from the celebrated Norwegian historian and collector, Per T. Norheim. This sale presents an excellent opportunity for arms and armour collectors to acquire rare works with distinguished provenance.”

The discovery of the cased superimposed load pistol was a result of diligent sleuthing by the son of the original collector. Acquired sometime after World War II, the pistol’s uniqueness prompted the son to seek specialist advice. Subsequent research by Bonhams’ Arms and Armour department confirmed its rarity and pristine condition. Notably, the pistol was documented in David Baxter’s influential book on superimposed load firearms in 1966. Adorned with exquisite decoration, the pistol promises to captivate discerning collectors.

In addition to the pistol, the auction will feature a curated selection of rapiers from the Per T. Norheim Collection. Norheim, a distinguished collector and author, was deeply involved in the study and preservation of arms and armour. Among the highlights is a Fine Swept-Hilt Rapier, with an estimated value of £10,000 to £15,000.

Also up for grabs are a pair of finely crafted K. C. Hunt engraved and gold-decorated 12-bore self-opening sidelock ejector guns by James Purdey & Sons. Encased in brass-mounted oak and leather, complete with gold-washed accessories, the guns are expected to fetch between £60,000 to £80,000.

Pair of K. C. Hunt gold-decorated 12-bore self-opening sidelock ejector guns by James Purdey & Sons © Bonhams

With such exceptional offerings, Bonhams’ Antique Arms & Armour auction promises to be a magnet for collectors seeking rare and historically significant pieces. For more information about the auction and to view the full catalog, visit Bonhams.com

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