An good quality English over-and-under percussion pistol by W. Mills, London, circa 1830-35, engraved 'W. Mills Improv'd 120 Holborn London' to the top-flat of the 6.5" barrels, proof marks to underside of barrel and serial number '748', engraved dolphin hammers with sliding safety catch to either side, hidden triggers, the figured walnut grip with a chequered rounded butt and a blank rectangular escutcheon, the grip with a miniature unscrewable ramrod, approximately 76 bore, overall length 16cm

W. Mills: Apprenticed to William Parker, 1797. Gunmaker, 59 Judd Street, Brunswick Square. 1821; 120 High Holborn 1822-43. Factory at 1 King Street. Gun maker to George IV in 1830, William IV and then Queen Victoria. Made guns with superimposed charges on Jacob Mould's Pat.; revolvers of E.H. Collier's patent circa 1830-5. Died 1837. Business continued by son William Frederick, under father's name, and as W. Mills & Son. Gunmaker to Ordnance 1836-9; East India Co. 1836-43. Bankrupt by 1843.

Condition Report

Both actions work - hammers hold at half and full cock and release with the trigger on each barrel - but the action is exceptionally stiff.

Bidding indicates acceptance of the condition of the lot.  All lots are sold subject to general wear and tear commensurate with age and handling over time and only obvious faults will be mentioned after a visual inspection. If you have particular specialist questions on any lot, please state these before bidding since we cannot and will not provide a forensic examination of any lot but only a general condition report as a guide only. All condition reports given by Halls Holdings Ltd's representatives or agents are statements of opinion and not fact. If you require any further information about any lots in this auction or about bidding please do not hesitate to contact us again.