Rare Purdey pistol- Excellent hammer result at Glasgow auction

Auctions can prove to be surprising affairs, full of expectation and excitement. The Medals, Militaria, Hunting, Shooting & Fishing Auction at McTear's on Tuesday 17th February was had all of these traits. The first big surprise of the evening was lot 803, a group of three swordsticks. One of the blades had decorative etching and the condition of all three were good. The hammer came down on £340 much to the surprise of everyone.

German militaria from World War Two period always garners interest. The reason being, that instruments and metal items such as dirks are always very well finished and of a high quality. A great example is lot 831, the German third reich lighter, with enamel swastika. Being such a domestic object, most examples are in poor condition, but this example was barely used. It was very rare and made £300 on the night.

The highest price paid on the night was for the Purdey four barrelled turn-over pistol. There was much discussion during the viewing as to why there was no serial number. With such intrigue we waited to see what the market thought. It turns out that they liked it, a lot! The obvious quality of the piece put paid to any question about its authenticity and on the night it made£7,000. An excellent result.

Following the military items there was a fine selection of sporting items. There was plenty of international interest, particularly from the United States. It will come as no surprise that anything with the Hardy's of Alnwick stamp garnered plenty of interest. A lot containing Two Hardy split cane rods, lot 849, made £220. The best fishing reel was lot 839, a Hardy Perfect that was in beautiful condition and made £240. Such was the success of the sale, everyone is now in a rush to consign more sporting-related items for The Hunting, Shooting & Fishing Auction on June 4th. We look forward to seeing you there!