^Lot 5367 GOOD SILVER MOUNTED BRASS BARREL FLINTLOCK HOLSTER

PISTOL BY E. NORTH OF LONDON. Cal. 50. NSN. 13 1/2" overall the 8" ovate to round brass barrel is engraved "ROYAL EXCHANGE LONDON" on top rear surrounded by scroll engraving. London black powder proofs and remnants of barrel maker's mark are on top left. Round bodied flint lock with matching serpentine cock, inset rounded pan, unbridled friction frizzen and feather spring with spear finial is lightly engraved. "E. NORTH" is at center (Edward working 1729-72; moved to Threadneedle St. in 1769). Knob pistol grip, dense European walnut stock extends to muzzle and is pinned to barrel. Lightly carved mouldings are around lockplate, sideplate and top tang where they are augmented by nicely carved shell. Silver mounts are relief cast and include grotesque face grip cap with Sterling hallmark, double beaded trigger guard with early shell finial, multi-pierced sideplate decorated with arms and crest plate at top of grip with helmet and arms. Replaced hickory ramrod mounts through silver beaded pipe and matching thimble. CONDITION: good. Barrel with cleaning is toned to mustard. Lock cleaned to gray brown has maker's name difficult to read and is lightly pitted. Stock is considerably worn with probable remains of original finish; carving remains good. Stock is sound without repairs except for old crack at bottom rear of lockplate. Silver is fine, lightly rubbed; attractively toned. Bore is dark. Lock is good. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of Nicholas Apergis. (01-27528/MGM). ANTIQUE. $1,500-2,500.