Original 1840 Scottish Matched Pair of All Steel Highland Belt Pistols by John Lyell of Aberdeen Original Items

Original Items: Only One Pair Available. This is a fantastic offering of a VERY FINE pair of rare circa 1840 Scottish “Ram’s Horn” all steel Highland percussion belt pistols. These very elegant pistols were worn during dress occasions, and when originally made were fully engraved and silver plated, making them quite the showpiece. If you were well to do in mid 19th Century Scotland, these were the thing to have when attending important dress functions.

This lovely matched pair are both marked Jn”o Lyell on the lock plates, with WARRANTED on the tops of the barrels. John Lyell is listed as a “Registered grate, stove and gun maker” working from various locations on Union Street in Aberdeen from 1832 – 1879. They were a well-known maker of high end guns, with examples of many types of gun seen from his decades long time in business.

The guns have unfortunately lost virtually all of their original plating, but have been well cared for, showing a lovely polished steel patina, with just a bit of light past peppering. The engraving is still clear over much of both pistols, showing great foliate designs throughout. They feature heavily rifled 6 1/4″ “cannon” style barrels, and measure about 10 3/8″ in overall length. Both still retain their original belt hooks as well as their ramrods under the barrel. Each has a ball-ended small nipple cone clearing pick that unscrews from the butt. Both pistols function correctly, with locks holding at half cock and firing at full. The bores are in great shape, showing only minor use and oxidation.

A fantastic offering, fully polished and ready to display!

Specifications: 

Year of Manufacture: circa 1840
Caliber: .50″ pistol
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 6 inches
Overall Length: 10 3/82 inches
Action: Percussion lock side action
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country’s antique gun laws prior to ordering.