Martiny Fils Dueling Pistol Set 50 Caliber Percussion Muzzleloaders Antique

Sold for $2980.00

LSB#: 220816PG036 and PG037

Make: Martiny Fils

Model: Pair of luxurious Dueling Pistols

Serial#: PG036: 6 & PG037: 5

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1830-1870, Antique

Caliber: .50 Caliber

Action Type: Pair of Percussion Muzzle-Loaded Dueling pistols

Markings: The gun’s are identically marked with the exception of their serial numbers.

The gun has floral engravings on the trigger guard, borders of the lock-plate, hammer, chamber, butt-cap and top tang. The lock-plate is marked “MARTINY FILS”. The top tang of each pistol features the serial number. The top of each barrel is marked “* DAMAS SUPERFIN *”.

Barrel Length: Approximately 8.75”, Octagonal

Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a dovetailed blade. The rear sight is a fixed V-notch.

Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The guns have the same stock features. The stock on each pistol features a engraved schnabel style forend, a brass forend wedge, a lock-plate secured by a single screw and a checkered grip with brass cap and shield shaped medallions at the top. The stocks on both pistols have some light handling marks, but neither has any notable defects. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering remains sharp. Overall, the stocks on both handguns are in Fine condition for an Antique.

Type of Finish: Case Color and Damascus

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bores on both pistols are grey with sharp rifling. There is light-moderate erosion concentrated in the grooves.

Overall Condition: The pistols both retain about 90% of their metal finish. The damascus barrels have some light handling marks, light finish loss along the leading edges and some scattered spots of light surface oxidation. The case coloring on the pistols remains strong with only a few light handling marks. The markings on both guns remain clear and crisp. The screwheads are only lightly tooled and remain serviceable. On PG036 the half cock safety no longer engages. Overall, PG037 is in Excellent condition for an Antique and PG036 is in Fine condition for an Antique.

Mechanics: On PG036 the half cock safety no longer engages, otherwise the action on both pistols engages normally. We have not fired either pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box Paperwork and Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: Martiny Fils was a Liege based Belgian arms manufacturer founded by Henry Nicolas Martiny. The company is believed to have been started in 1790 and was in operation throughout the 19th century. These dueling pistols were likely made by the company sometime between 1830-1870, when the percussion-ignition system was most popular. The guns exude an air of elegance with beautiful damascus barrels and strong case coloring. Based on their impressive construction and fine engravings, one would have to assume these were made for a wealthy client. On PG036 (serial number 6) the half cock safety no longer engages, but otherwise the mechanics on both guns remains strong. This is a wonderful set of historical firearms that will make a great addition to any collection. Good luck on your bid!