A Very Rare Pair of Superimposed Load Tap Action Flintlock Pistols, by Nicholson.
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8” overall, 3 ¼” 48 bore turn off 2 section barrels with engraved muzzles, the breeches numbered ‘1’ and ‘2’, and with London proofs, boxlock actions with tap, engraved ‘Nicholson Corn Hill London’, ring necked cocks, top sliding safety, florally engraved trigger guards and plain flat sided walnut butts. In a later green baize lined fitted rosewood case with folding brass carrying handle, containing a small copper powder flask by Sykes and a replacement steel combination muzzle/barrel key.
Circa 1790.
In good condition
Superimposed pistols are very uncommon, I have never seen one like this.
William Nicholson - Free of Gunmakers Co. by redemption 1780. Took Livery 1788. Elected Assistant 1790; Master 1793. Gunmaker at 17 Houndsditch 1779-86; 45 Cornhill, 1786-94. Contractor to East India Co. 1779-94.
See. ‘Superimposed Load Firearms 1360-1860’ by D. R. Baxter and ‘Superimposed-Load Flintlock Pistols: Three Examples of 18th Century Technology’ By Matthew Schneiderman and John Burgoyne Arms Heritage Magazine, Volume 7 #4 (August 2017), pages 21-25.