Product Details
TIPPING & LAWDEN,
AN UNUSUAL AND RARE .34 (RIMFIRE) OVERSIZED FOUR-BARRELLED OVERCOAT-PISTOL, MODEL 'SHARP'S PATENT', serial no. 2086
circa 1875 and of 'Model 3' type (see below), with slide forwards 4 1/4in. barrels (refinished, some shallow pitting in flutes), squared brass standing breech and integral frame and signed 'TIPPING & LAWDEN SHARP'S PATENT' in a circle around the hammer screw, long bar-form barrel release catch terminating in a raised button, broad spurred hammer with indexing nose, spur trigger and forward curving grip fitted with flared smooth walnut grip-plates
Provenance: Only two European firms were ever licenced to make Sharp's derringer pistols; Ghaye of Liege and Tipping & Lawden of Birmingham; although numerous patent infringements were made by others. Of the two licenced firms, Tipping & Lawden are the most commonly encountered and they produced the pistol imitating Sharp's own 'Model 1' type, but unlike Sharp they produced it in three sizes. The No. 3 size as represented here is by far the rarest and is estimated to have had a production of only 250 units in total across two calibres; .34 and 9mm rimfires.
Please click HERE to view Terms & Conditions. Please note all Lots are listed in accordance with UK Law, for overseas buyers, please ensure you are familiar with your relevant local firearms and customs regulations before bidding.
Estimate £500-800
Sold as an exempt item under Section 58 (2) of the 1968 Firearms Act, to be held as a curiosity or ornament