A Fabulous Museum Grade Samurai Daimyo's Art-Sword. From The Koto Era. A Samurai Wakizashi Sword By Master Tadamitsu With Rare Gaku-mei Nakago. Blade, Circa 1440-1460. Mino Goto Koshirae, With Deep Red Ishime Lacquer Saya & Black Silk Binding

With very rare gaku-mei framed nakago, where the mei (signature) was moved from this original nakago tang, and inserted into the shortened tang, and framed in order to preserve the important master smith’s signature, upon his museum grade blade. Overall this stunning art-sword is in incredible near flawless condition. The term art-sword refers that highest grade of samurai sword, that was certainly made for all forms of combat use, yet are decorated with such beauty and skill that they are as much works of art as a samurai's combat arm. Likely made for for the highest ranking samurai or daimyo clan lord.

With its spectacular suite of beautiful, original, Edo period Mino-Goto fittings, with tsuba, in shakudo, and uttori of pure gold decor of flowers, cricket, catydid and praying mantis. Deep red ishime urushi stone finish lacquered saya, with carved buffalo horn fittings and a Mino-Goto throat mount.
Superb black silk tsuka-ito over fine pure gold decorated menuki.

A wonderful Muromachi era blade almost 600 years old, with a superb, incredibly active hamon, in a beautiful polish with gold foil habaki and blade smith shortened tang with its original preserved ‘folded over’ signature inlaid and inserted within the tang.

The hamon forms a delightful gunome pattern, mixing with clove (Choji) outline which is slanted generally. The founder of the sword maker school, Tadamitsu in Bizen, is referred in the Shouou period (1288-93) and the oldest existent Tanto by him has the date year, Teiji 3,1364) during the Nanbokucho period, then later generations shows the records of Ouei to Bunmei era (1394-1486) in Muromachi period. The preserved 'folded over' system, that can be seen beautifully done on this blade, in order to preserve the blade smith's signature, was only reserved for the best and most highly revered blades, often of historical significance to the samurai's family. The ancient province of Kibi (of which Bizen was the easternmost region; now Okayama prefecture) possessed excellent ironmaking technology, which helped make Kibi into a powerful state. The region is blessed with all the vital ingredients needed for Japanese sword making: iron sand, water, and charcoal of Japanese red pine, which has excellent thermal efficiency. Research on Japanese swords since the Meiji period has revealed five different features or styles based on the regions in which they were made: Yamashiro (Kyoto prefecture), Yamato (Nara prefecture), Bizen (Okayama prefecture), Sagami (Kanagawa prefecture), and Mino (Gifu prefecture. The characteristic styles of these five regions were passed down from master to disciple and from one region to the next. These are collectively known as Gokaden (five traditions of swordmaking). The province of Bizen was located far from Japan's political center throughout its history, allowing it to prosper regardless of the political state of sovereignty of the day. The most typical Bizen blade has a steel surface grain called itamehada (wooden board grained) with a unique pattern called chōji (clove-shaped) on the blade. This pattern is a feature of Bizen swords and it is what makes Bizen swords special.

The Gotō School of sword-fittings makers was founded in the fifteenth century by Gotō Yūjō, who is said to have been patronized by the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa (1435–1490). The work of the Gotō masters is characterized by painterly designs carved in high relief on a ground of shakudō (an alloy of copper and gold chemically treated to turn a rich blue-black), finished in nanako (tiny circles punched regularly over the surface to give it a granular appearance) with colorful accents in gold and silver. The succeeding generations of Gotō masters continued to work in these soft metals and concentrated on the smaller sword fittings, such as kozuka (the handle of the small utility knife fitted into a slot on some swords, on the the back of a sword’s saya or scabbard), kōgai (a skewer-like hairdressing tool carried in the front of the scabbard), and menuki (a pair of grip ornaments secured by the handle wrappings). The production of the stouter sword guards, or tsuba, was left to other masters. While earlier generations had not signed their work, some Gotō masters in about 1600 began to authenticate the work of their predecessors; the attributions usually were engraved on the backs of the pieces themselves. These attributions bear testimony to the keen interest in early sword fittings as status symbols for high-ranking samurai.
Fuchi kashira,menuki and tsuba from the Mino School. Sometimes known as an offshoot from the Goto School, the Mino tradition of kinko have their roots from the Koto period, Known as Ko-Mino, that style led to the Edo Mino tradition which used the difficult technique of Uttori, or gold foiling. The gold on these stunning pieces are not plated, but rather have generous hammered gold foil applied in a very difficult technique not seen today except in habaki work. Because it was so time consuming and difficult, there are relatively few works by this school. Design is very traditional of kiku (chrysanthemums) and flowering blossoms and leaves, with catydids and praying mantis etc. and is executed very well indeed.
As once told to us by an esteemed regular visitor to us here in our gallery, and the same words that are repeated in his book;

“In these textures lies an extraordinary and unique feature of the sword - the steel itself possesses an intrinsic beauty. The Japanese sword has been appreciated as an art object since its perfection some time during the tenth century AD. Fine swords have been more highly prized than lands or riches, those of superior quality being handed down from generation to generation. In fact, many well-documented swords, whose blades are signed by their makers, survive from nearly a thousand years ago. Recognizable features of the blades of hundreds of schools of sword-making have been punctiliously recorded, and the study of the sword is a guide to the flow of Japanese history.”
Victor Harris
Curator, Assistant Keeper and then Keeper (1998-2003) of the Department of Japanese Antiquities at the British Museum. He studied from 1968-71 under Sato Kenzan, Tokyo National Museum and Society for the Preservation of Japanese Swords
As once told to us by an esteemed regular visitor to us here in our gallery, and the same words that are repeated in his book;

“In these textures lies an extraordinary and unique feature of the sword - the steel itself possesses an intrinsic beauty. The Japanese sword has been appreciated as an art object since its perfection some time during the tenth century AD. Fine swords have been more highly prized than lands or riches, those of superior quality being handed down from generation to generation. In fact, many well-documented swords, whose blades are signed by their makers, survive from nearly a thousand years ago. Recognizable features of the blades of hundreds of schools of sword-making have been punctiliously recorded, and the study of the sword is a guide to the flow of Japanese history.”
Victor Harris
Curator, Assistant Keeper and then Keeper (1998-2003) of the Department of Japanese Antiquities at the British Museum. He studied from 1968-71 under Sato Kenzan, Tokyo National Museum and Society for the Preservation of Japanese Swords

Overall blade length from base of habaki to tip 21.5 inches long.  read more

Code: 23519

Twenty Six Years Ago, After Over 80 Years Trading in Brighton, We Were Honoured by Being Nominated & Awarded by BACA, In The Best Antique & Collectables Shop In Britain Awards 2001

Presented by MILLER'S Antiques Guide, THE BBC, HOMES & ANTIQUES MAGAZINE, for the British Antique & Collectables Awards. The version of the antique dealers ‘Oscars’ of Britain.

It was a great honour for Mark and David, especially considering at the beginning of the new millennium, in the year 2000, there was over 7,000 established antique and collectors shops in the UK, according to the official Guide to the Antique Shops of Britain, 1999-2000, and we were nominated, and voted into in the top four in Britain.

Since first opening our doors early in the last century, for over 55 years as mine host, Mark, and for 45 years by David, they have personally greeted hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, and likely tens of millions in over half a century, to their family owned galleries. To every single one we have tried our utmost to provide our renown five star service of courtesy, respect, assistance, help, and advice.

We still have many more pieces from our collection, to add to our web store. Many are absolute beauties of museum quality, including military artifacts, guards bearskin caps, swords, and militaria from the Crimean War

Plus, many more original samurai swords, are to be added. Also, an amazing collection of original, antique samurai sword tsuba {sword guards} from the past 500 years, and, as well as all that, so much more!

A resume, below, of our family’s ‘old English merchants and traders’ 500 year old history, that stretches from our ancestors serving Queen Elizabeth 1st as her ‘Sea-Hawk’ captains, that were highly successful {though technically, unofficial} maritime raiders, and scourge of the Spanish fleet of King Philip of Spain, relieving them of his gold, looted from The Americas, then, over 400 years later, to HMS Hawkins, a ‘Hawkins’ class heavy-cruiser, {the ship and her class that were named after Sir John Hawkins, one of Queen Elizabeth’s Sea-Hawk captains} that took part in the Normandy landings in 1944, supporting American troops landing on Utah Beach, and then, to current times, and our shop here in The Lanes.

Our family have been involved as merchants and traders in the South of England {lately in Sussex, and formerly, in the ‘West-Country’ in Devon} since the early part of the 16th century. Our ‘Hawkins’ ancestors, were then based in Plymouth, in the county of Devon, and were sea-farers of world renown, and some of the very earliest traders regularly sailing their merchant ships across the Atlantic to the New World, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth 1st.

Our fleet were taking emigrating English pilgrims and settlers West to America, and returning with new and exotic cargo from the entire Americas, {such as tobacco and potatoes from the Andes}, Eastwards across the Atlantic, to the eager 16th century English markets.

By the 19th century part of our family had re-located Eastwards to Brighton, yet still connected to our maritime roots, into the local Brighton shellfish trade, supplying shellfish to the Prince Regent’s kitchens at the Palace in Brighton, and his accompanying aristocratic court that had built their family ‘town’ mansions across the length of Brighton’s seafront.
From there, part of the Hawkins family ‘migrated’ to more land based pursuits, of merchant traders, primarily as shop-keepers in and around Brighton, and other Hawkins’ though emigrated, and settled to trade in America and Canada.

David Hawkins senior {Mark and David’s father} however, lovingly maintained his desire to remain connected to our ancient family maritime roots. His desire was sated by acquiring a deep-sea-fishing and sailing ship, a 1930’s gaff rigged schooner. Moored at Newhaven port’s Cresta Marine, but it was only used strictly for pleasure, until the late 1970’s. Offering frequent complimentary recreational therapy fishing trips to blind former servicemen from St Dunstans Hospital in the 1960’s.
A photo in the gallery is of portraits of two sea faring ‘Plymouth’ Hawkins, John and Richard, John was cousin to Sir Francis Drake who became one of England’s foremost naval commanders, and, scourge of King Philip of Spain, and father of Richard. Another photo is of heavy cruiser HMS Hawkins named in John’s honour, it was the lead ship of five Hawkins-class heavy-cruisers, named after our esteemed forebears. In 1944 HMS Hawkins returned home from the East Indies fleet to participate in the Normandy landings. Initially assigned to the 1st Cruiser Squadron of the Home Fleet, she was detached to the Western Task Force Gunfire Support Bombardment Force U to support American troops landing at Utah Beach.

Scholars think it is likely Francis Drake was illegitimate, and that is probably why he was placed at an early age into the household of William Hawkins of Plymouth. Drake thus began his seagoing training as an apprentice for the Hawkins family, and the rest as they say, is history.

We are open 6 days a week from 10.30 till 4.30. Please note however, we never open our gallery on Sundays or Bank Holidays. A tradition of just a single day of rest every week we have tried our best to maintain for 100 years.

However, our web store, like all the stores online, operates 24/7, 365 days of the year.

Here’s wishing a healthy and happy well-being to us all.
Gloria Antika!

Every single item from The Lanes Armoury is accompanied by our unique Certificate of Authenticity. Part of our continued dedication to maintain the standards forged by us over the past 100 years of trading  read more

Code: 23577

A Very Fine, 1917 US Bayonet, The *U.S. Model 1913 ‘1917’ Dated Remington Bayonet and Scabbard.

Excellent plus, and an exceptional example. The American U.S. Model 1913 , dated 1917 Bayonet in leather and steel scabbard with frog button mount. Known as a 'sleeper', in the collecting market, in that it was put into storage in 1946 and hasn't seen the light of day since, we have just acquired a super collection of bayonets all in stored or mint condition.

This is a superb 1913- 1917 pattern bayonet marked to the blade with 1917 over Remington in a circle on one side and U.S. on the other with the grenade stamp. These bayonets were originally manufactured by the U.S. in WWI and acquired by the British in WWII for use mainly by the Home Guard.

Pattern 1913/17. In excellent order. Made by Remington. The pattern of bayonet that was continually used in WW2 by the British Home Guard. With twin cuts in the wood grip added to differentiate for British forces that it was the American bayonet and not a British 1907 Wilkinson.

Originally the bayonet design was made for the British in September 1917 (the 9 17 mark) by Remington in the US as the 1913 Pattern intended to be issued with the P14 Rifle in .303 inch calibre. However, when America entered the war they changed production of the P14 rifle over to .30 inch calibre, at which point it became their M17 rifle. As the calibre change meant no alteration to the bayonet was required they basically took the unfinished/unshipped bayonets and made them American property by over-stamping the British marks with American marks, thus becoming M1917 bayonets.

This bayonet beautifully original with all original blue and parkerised blade.

Generic photos in the gallery, this bayonet is actually better that the one photographed  read more

Code: 25111

A Very Rare Scots Fusilier Guards Officer's Bearskin Cap 1854. Used at Alma. Of Major Sir Charles J. J. Hamilton, 3rd Baronet Hamilton, Commander Of The Battalion Of Scots Fusilier Guards, Hero of Alma. Cousin of Capt. E.A.Hamilton Coldstream Guards

He commanded a battalion of the Scots Fusilier Guards at the Battle of Alma, and had his horse shot under him.

Acquired with a pair of books presented to his cousin, his heir, the 4th & 2nd baronet Hamilton, Edward A. Hamilton, Coldstream Guards in 1858. They are interred in the same family crypt at Brompton cemetery.

A person can be both the 4th baronet of one line and the 2nd baronet of another by inheriting two separate, distinct baronetcy titles from different branches of their family.
This scenario typically arises through a combination of inheritance, a lack of direct male heirs in one branch, and the merger of family lines.

In overall very good condition, the interior is lined with a leather cap, stitched to the skin, as could be usual for the Crimean bearskin, so the caps could be transported flat one supposes, and it also has the officer's velvet band partially intact. It has no hackle mount externally, which is correct for the Scots Fusilier Guards bearskins, as they wore no hackle, unlike the Grenadiers, and Coldstream Guards. This is only the second 1850's example used in the Crimea we have seen outside of the Guards Museum
.
This is the bearskin headdress of an 1850's officer of the Scots Fusilier Guards, one of the most famous regiments of infantry in the British Army. This celebrated item, still worn by the Guards Division on ceremonial duties, has its origins in the Battle of Waterloo, where the 1st Foot Guards of Wellington's army fought against the French Imperial Guard, who wore bearskin caps. It was during the reign of King George IV that the Guard uniforms were changed, along with the Guard Regiments themselves. The scarlet coatee was introduced, with gray or white trousers and in 1832 the bearskin cap became the official headdress of all three guards regiments, thus creating the ceremonial uniform that essentially remains in use today.

In the Crimean war the bearskin was reduced in height and the cap's pelt could be attached to a leather cap, as is this one, and not mounted on a frame of willow or rattan, one such bearskin mounted is in the Guards Museum London

In the Crimean war they were still a combat helmet, classified as a bearskin cap. Sometime after the Crimea the bearskin was only in use by the guards, and fusiliers as a dress cap, as it still is today.

The guards combat details follow below {in a brief resume} at the Battle of Alma, during the retreat and second attack.

By now, the 1st Division had finally crossed the river and the Russians in the greater redoubt saw approaching them the Guards' Brigade, with the Grenadier Guards on the right, the Scots Fusilier Guards in the centre, and the Coldstream Guards on the left. Out of sight on the far left was the Highland Brigade, commanded by Sir Colin Campbell. Campbell was irritated by the Guards' delay and ordered an immediate advance. A firm believer in the charge with bayonets, Campbell told his men not to fire their rifles until they were "within a yard of the Russians".

The Scots Fusiliers, by then ahead of the rest of the division, started to move uphill immediately, repeating the Light Division's mistake, which at that moment was running down from the redoubt, pursued by Russian infantry. The Light Division crashed into the advancing Scots Fusiliers with such force that the line was broken in many places. The Scots faltered, but emerged on the other side with only half their numbers and continued towards the great redoubt in a chaotic state. When they were 37 m (40 yd) from the redoubt, the Russians mounted a massive volley. The Scots Fusiliers were forced to retreat, stopping only when they reached the river.

The two other guards regiments filled the gap left by the Scots Fusiliers, but refused orders to charge with bayonets up the hill. Instead, the Grenadiers and the Coldstream formed into lines and started firing Minié volleys into the Russian advance parties. This stopped the Russians, and the Grenadiers and the Coldstream were soon able to close the gap between them; the Russians were again forced back into the redoubt. Vintage, replaced chinscales

Photos in the gallery of Hand-coloured photograph of three soldiers of the Scots Fusiliers Guards who served in the Crimean War. From right to left are Corporal Judd, Edward Temple and William Reynolds. They are all seated with Judd resting his bearskin on his lap and Temple holding one of the three rifles joint together pointing upwards.

Sir Charles John James Hamilton, 3rd Baronet, of Marlborough House, Hampshire, was the only son of Admiral Sir Charles Hamilton, K.C.B., 2nd Baronet, and Henrietta Martha, only daughter of George Drummond, of Stanmore in Middlesex. Educated at the Charterhouse, he was a career soldier, and appointed a Major in the Royal Scots Fusiliers. He succeeded his father in 1849, and was promoted a Colonel in the Army in 1854 in which year he retired. He commanded a battalion of the Scots Fusilier Guards at the Battle of Alma, and had his horse shot under him. He was awarded the Crimean Medal and Clasp, and the Turkish War Medal and was nominated a Companion of the Order of the Bath by special statute. He married, 14 December 1833, Catherine Emily, daughter of William Wynne of Dublin, but they had no children, and when he died in 1892 he was succeeded by his cousin, Sir Edward Archibald Hamilton, 2nd Baronet of Trebinshun House, Breconshire.

"Sir Charles John James Hamilton, Baronet, 1776, of Iping, succeeded. to the Baronetcy, 14 Sep. 1849 (1854) Major Scots Fusilier Guards, distinguished himself at the battle of the Alma, Sep. 1854, but retired in 1855 as Lieut.-Colonel ; C.B., 1855.

Throughout the war Queen Victoria had taken an active interest in the welfare of the troops and on their return from the Crimea she met a number of the veterans at Buckingham Palace, Chatham Military Hospital and Aldershot Garrison. Following these meetings she commissioned a series of photographs of the veterans from the photographers Joseph Cundall and Robert Howlett.

The other coloured photograph is of Colour Sergeant William McGregor of the Scots Fusilier Guards.  read more

Code: 24947

Origin and Services of the Coldstream Guards, Presented to 4th & 2nd Baronet Hamilton, Edward A. Hamilton, {later Capt.} Coldstream Guards in 1858. Heir to Major Sir Charles J.J. Hamilton, 3rd Baronet Hamilton, Hero of Alma, Scots Fusilier Guards

1st editions printed in by A.J.Valpy Red Lion Court Fleet St. in 1833. 2 vols., 8vo., First Edition, with 17 engraved plates of medals, view of Hugomont and plan of Waterloo.The first dedicated history of the regiment.

It was one of the books selected by the Royal Librarian Richard Rivington Holmes in 1893 as a fine example of bookbinding in the Royal Library at Windsor Castle.

Acquired with a very, very rare Scots Fusilier Guards Officer's Bearskin Cap 1854. Used at Sebastopol and Alma, by his cousin, Major Sir Charles John James Hamilton, the 3rd Baronet Hamilton, Hero of Alma.
This pair of books were presented to his heir, the later 4th & 2nd Baronet Hamilton, Edward A. Hamilton, {later} Captain of the Coldstream Guards, in 1858.

Both Sir Charles John James Hamilton, 3rd Baronet Hamilton, and 4th & 2nd Baronet Hamilton, Edward A. Hamilton, are interred in the same family crypt at Brompton cemetery.

A person can be both the 4th baronet of one line and the 2nd baronet of another by inheriting two separate, distinct baronetcy titles from different branches of their family.
This scenario typically arises through a combination of inheritance, a lack of direct male heirs in one branch, and the merger of family lines.


Founded in 1650, the Coldstream Guards is the oldest Guards regiment in the British Army and serves an important role in protecting the monarch. This history of the regiment was written by Colonel Daniel MacKinnon, who had distinguished himself at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. During the battle, MacKinnon had three horses shot from under him and despite being severely wounded, led the manoeuvres of the Coldstream and Grenadier guards that led to the vital occupation of Hougoumont, defending it against countless French onslaughts. In 1826, he became the commander of the Coldstream Guards and began writing this history.

MacKinnon dedicated his history to William IV and the books in the Royal Collection is were likely the volumes presented to the king on its publication in 1833. It was one of the books selected by the Royal Librarian Richard Rivington Holmes in 1893 as a fine example of bookbinding in the Royal Library at Windsor Castle.

The Coldstream Guards - now part of the Household Division - has the unique distinction of being the oldest Regiment of the British Army. It traces its origins to 1650 when it was founded at Coldstream on the English-Scottish border by George Monck, the Cromwellian General who ten years later was instrumental in restoring the monarchy of Charles II. This two volume history of the early years of the Regiment was written by Col. Daniel Mackinnon in 1833. Mackinnon (1791-1836) was a particularly gallant officer, who had three horses shot under him at Waterloo. The first volume narrates the fascinating story of Moncks' foundation of the Regiment, and its first battle honours in 1650 at Cromwell's great victory over the Scots at Dunbar. It also narrates the Regiment's proud part in the Anglo-Dutch wars of the 17th century and the 18th Century wars against Spain and France - including Marlborough's victory at Oudenarde; and the battle of Dettingen against France - the last battle at which a British monarch (George II) fought. Volume II, which takes the story down to the battle of Waterloo in which the author himself fought, is dominated by the American War of Independence; and the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. These are books to treasure for anyone interested in his fine old regiment and in the early history of the British Army.

They were at some time in the possession of the Wauchope clan in Scotland, with ex libris label.

In the gallery we show the crest of Colonel Hamilton of the Scots Guards, his cousin and the 3nd Baronet Hamilton. A crest that would have been passed down to Capt. Edward A. Hamilton 4th Baronet  read more

Code: 26077

A Crimean & Zulu War Original 1821/45 Pattern Victorian Wilkinson Infantry Officer’s Deluxe Grade Combat Sword. Traditional Gothic Style Pierced Half Basket Hilt With Queen Victoria’s Cypher. Exactly As Worn By Lt Bromhead. Of a 57th Regt. Of Foot Officer

Commissioned from Wilkinson sword in late 1854, delivered in early 1855, for an officer of the 57th Foot, the West Middlesex Regiment, Lt. Alexander F. A. Slade, while serving in the Crimean War, at Sebastopol, then, much later it was further used in the regiment in the Zulu War, in the Battle of Gingindlovu. Lt Slade later became a Captain {by purchase} in 1859, while then serving in India. We acquired the sword with a complete set of Kinglake, A.W., “The Invasion of the Crimea: Its Origin, and an Account of its Progress to the Death of Lord Raglan”. Including Ist Editions.

Exactly the same form of sword used by Lt Bromhead in the Zulu war, as was portrayed and carried in the film 'Zulu' by Sir Michael Caine. A fully etched blade, bearing the cypher and crest of H.M. Queen Victoria, traditional Gothic pieced half basket hilt, combined combat-dress steel scabbard. Combat weight, fully etched VR Crown blade. Monogrammed hilt

In the gallery is photograph of a group of five officers from the 57th Regiment. The officers are arranged in a line, with one man seated and the rest standing. All are wearing military uniform and are carrying the very same swords. A dog lies on the ground in front of them and there is a tent behind. It is perfectly possible Lt. Slade is one of the officer's within the photo.

The 57th Regiment served during the Crimean War, and whilst there were photographed on a number of occasions by Roger Fenton {see photo}.

The 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot: Participated in major Crimean battles (Alma, Inkerman, Sevastopol) and also served in the Zulu War.

Arrival: The 57th landed in Natal in March 1879, joining the effort to relieve the besieged garrison at Eshowe.
Battle of Gingindlovu (April 2, 1879): They formed part of the relief force, holding the laager's right flank and repelling attacks, earning commendation from Lord Chelmsford for their steadiness under intense fire.
Second Invasion: Afterward, they marched with Crealock's Division, advancing along the coast, burning Zulu homesteads, and forming part of the force that occupied Ulundi.

Traditional gilt hilt of Gothic form, pierced with Queen Victoria's cypher

Photo in the gallery from the film "Zulu" and Michael Caine as Bromhead with his sword for information only not included.
The 1822/45 pattern of sword has a Gothic hilt and Queen Victoria's cypher within the pierced oval centre. This sabre would have seen service by an officer at the very cusp of England's Glory of Empire. A sabre fit to represent the age and used throughout the Zulu War and numerous other great and famous conflicts of the Victorian era. The 1822 pattern infantry with it's elegant pierced Gothic style hilt, and the graceful monogram of Queen Victoria make it one of the most attractive patterns of sword ever used by British Army officers, and it was a pattern that saw service for almost 80 years. The blade is by Henry Wilkinson, who developed in 1845 pattern blade. Many swords of British officers were continually used for many decades, until the 1890's in fact, as swords were quite often passed on from father to son, down the generations, in many military families. During the period of this sword's use, two of most famous pair of engagements in the British army's history, during the last quarter of the 19th century, happened over two consecutive days. Curiously, it is fair to say that these two engagements, by the 24th Foot, against the mighty Zulu Impi, are iconic examples of how successful or unsuccessful leadership can result, in either the very best conclusion, or the very worst. And amazingly, within only one day of each other. The 1879 Zulu War, for the 24th Foot, will, for many, only mean two significant events, Isandlhwana and Rorke's Drift. This is the brief story of the 24th Foot in South Africa; In 1875 the 1st Battalion arrived in Southern Africa and subsequently saw service, along with the 2nd Battalion, in the 9th Xhosa War in 1878. In 1879 both battalions took part in the Zulu War, begun after a British invasion of Zululand, ruled by Cetshwayo. The 24th Foot took part in the crossing of the Buffalo River on 11 January, entering Zululand. The first engagement (and the most disastrous for the British) came at Isandhlwana. The British had pitched camp at Isandhlwana and not established any fortifications due to the sheer size of the force, the hard ground and a shortage of entrenching tools. The 24th Foot provided most of the British force and when the overall commander, Lord Chelmsford, split his forces on 22 January to search for the Zulus, the 1st Battalion (5 companies) and a company of the 2nd Battalion were left behind to guard the camp, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Henry Pulleine (CO of the 1/24th Foot).

The Zulus, 22,000 strong, attacked the camp and their sheer numbers overwhelmed the British. As the officers paced their men far too far apart to face the coming onslaught. During the battle Lieutenant-Colonel Pulleine ordered Lieutenants Coghill and Melvill to save the Queen's Colour—the Regimental Colour was located at Helpmakaar with G Company. The two Lieutenants attempted to escape by crossing the Buffalo River where the Colour fell and was lost downstream, later being recovered. Both officers were killed. At this time the Victoria Cross (VC) was not awarded posthumously. This changed in the early 1900s when both Lieutenants were awarded posthumous Victoria Crosses for their bravery. The 2nd Battalion lost both its Colours at Isandhlwana though parts of the Colours—the crown, the pike and a colour case—were retrieved and trooped when the battalion was presented with new Colours in 1880.

The 24th had performed with distinction during the battle. The last survivors made their way to the foot of a mountain where they fought until they expended all their ammunition and were killed. The 24th Foot suffered 540 dead, including the 1st Battalion's commanding officer.

After the battle, some 4,000 to 5,000 Zulus headed for Rorke's Drift, a small missionary post garrisoned by a company of the 2/24th Foot, native levies and others under the command of Lieutenant Chard, Royal Engineers, the most senior officer of the 24th present being Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead. Two Boer cavalry officers, Lieutenants Adendorff and Vane, arrived to inform the garrison of the defeat at Isandhlwana. The Acting Assistant Commissary James Langley Dalton persuaded Bromhead and Chard to stay and the small garrison frantically prepared rudimentary fortifications.

The Zulus first attacked at 4:30 pm. Throughout the day the garrison was attacked from all sides, including rifle fire from the heights above the garrison, and bitter hand-to-hand fighting often ensued. At one point the Zulus entered the hospital, which was stoutly defended by the wounded inside until it was set alight and eventually burnt down. The battle raged on into the early hours of 23 January but by dawn the Zulu Army had withdrawn. Lord Chelmsford and a column of British troops arrived soon afterwards. The garrison had suffered 15 killed during the battle (two died later) and 11 defenders were awarded the Victoria Cross for their distinguished defense of the post, 7 going to soldiers of the 24th Foot.

The stand at Rorke's Drift was immortalised in the 1964 movie Zulu, and Michael Caine is carrying this very same pattern of sword.

Overall in nice condition, triple wire bound sharkskin grip, steel combat scabbard with light surface old russetting and two small combat dents at the bottom near the shoe. Blade nicely royal etched with old polished out bright surface russetting.  read more

Code: 26087

A Superb Pocket Sized 'Pepperbox' Derringer Revolver Six Shot Pistol Circa 1840, With Most Rare Sliding Hammer Safety Mechanism

Good condition for age, all over blue-black finish, all barrels are numbered 1 through 6 and all individually proofed. Chequered original wooden grips, frame scroll hand engraved, hammer leaf engraved, trigger guard scroll engraved

The 'pepperbox' 6 shot revolver was an amazing progression from the single shot percussion pistol, that worked on the rotating multi barrelled principle before the concept of a revolving cylinder and a single barrel system was invented. the style of the pistol created its nickname of the pepperbox as it looked somewhat like a peppermill, but they most often were large belt or holster pistol sized, whereas the pocket Derringer sized type, being the scarcest of all, is most rarely seen to survive today.

The pepperbox revolver was still being used in the American Civil War, especially by Southern soldiers due to the lack of arms, a photo in the gallery shows a Confederate corporal holding his larger holster or belt size pepperbox revolver, and he looks barely 13 years of age.

In the 1850s, the extreme popularity of antique derringer pistols swept the nation like wildfire. Henry Deringer, the man who made the first Philadelphia Deringer, created a small and concealable pistol for people to carry for protection. When searching for an antique derringer pistol for sale, one will notice that derringers are made by a number of different brands and manufacturers. Many people wanted to make their design number one and stick out among the rigorous competition. One man that took the idea into his own hands and became a favorite in the Old West for pocket sized guns was Christian Sharps

Sharp had been in the business of rifle making before he endeavored into pocket pistol designs. He started his career in Harpers Ferry, Virginia with John Halls Rifle Works. He patented his own Sharps rifle in 1848 and, interestingly enough, a year later in December 1849, he patented his first design for the antique derringer pistol he desired to create. Unfortunately, it was a poorly constructed and fragile design in need of some work before it could be sold commercially.

The antique derringer sized pistols became known as the ‘hideout pistol’ to westerners. The prominence of these small multi shot pocket pistols as a gambler’s gun arose in the the Old Wild West. The gun was very commonly used by gamblers and tavern frequenters since they could slide it up their sleeve or in their pocket without the people around the being any the wiser. Western outlaws loved the conceal ability and carried the gun as an extra side arm. The gun is sometimes referred to as the perfect concealable pistol.

Tight and crisp spring, action rotates with occassional missfires, and one nipple is lacking.

No licence is required to own and collect this antique pistol

Six inches long overall with six two inch long barrells  read more

Code: 24967

A Fine & Exceedingly Handsome US Civil War Moore 7 Shot Belt Revolver With Original New York Factory Engraving. Later Cased With Tools

A Daniel Moore Seven-shot .32 calibre rimfire revolver, serial number 1074, manufactured by Daniel Moore of Brooklyn, and patented by him on September 18th, 1860. In overall, superbly nice external condition with much original nickel plating and blue finish. The nickel plating shows of beautifully the original, fine, ‘New York’ factory engraving.

It is extremely keenly priced when it is considered next to it far better known Civil War revolver competitors, such as Smith and Wesson, Colt, Remington and Starr etc. plus it’s rarity, in that it’s production was barely 3% that of Colt alone, plus, it was a breech loading cartridge gun, that made its firing advantage far greater than that of its cap and ball percussion revolver rivals. No wonder Cole Younger continually used his until it was captured from him in 1876.

This gun is the very first revolver with swing-out cylinder ever produced. With the hammer in halfcock position, a pressure on the catch located right from the hammer on the recoil shield allows the barrel and cylinder to be swung out to the right for loading.

Engraved Moore’s Patent Firearms Co. Single Action Belt Revolver. These revolvers were made in Brooklyn, New York from 1861-1863 and number less than 7,000 in total, possibly as low as 5,000. The primary significance of this pistol is that many of these are known to have been purchased by Union officers and enlisted men for use during the American Civil War, Including, Cole Younger of Quantrill's Raiders.

Sturdy and very well made, this revolver was in its days a lot more advanced that all its competitors. Unfortunately for Mr Moore, its bored-through cylinder made it also an infringment on the Rollin White patent, that was then owned by Smith & Wesson. As they usually did, S&W filed a claim, which resulted in the surrender to S&W of 18,072 unsold revolvers by 4 companies in settlement of the damage claims. The mention "Manufd. for Smith & Wesson by Moore's Pat. Fire Arms Co" was stamped on the barrels of all turned over revolvers prior to sale, but ours was made prior to this change.

This one bears the early serial 1074 and does not have this mention, which indicates it was sold before the trial.

Excellent weapon, featuring a factory New York hand-engraved brass frame. This fine Moore would undoubtedly have seen military use during the Civil War.

One of the most famous owners of a Moore 7 shot belt revolver just like this example, was 'Cole' Younger, during the Northfield Bank Robbery. He was part of the James -Younger gang with Jesse And Frank James and Cole’s brothers Jim, John and Bob. He supposedly used his Moore as a Captain in the notorious Quantrill's Raiders of the Confederate States Army in the Civil War.
After the war, as part of the Younger-James Gang after the Great Northfield Bank Raid, Cole Younger had his pistol taken from him on 21 September 1876, and it was his Daniel Moore 1860 patent revolver, which bore a serial number within 150 of this revolver. Also recovered with it was his Civil War Officer’s belt and holster.

Photos in the gallery of an original ambrotype photo of Cole Younger, {now in a museum} and his $5,000 reward 'wanted' poster for train robbery, also a photo of him with his brother Bob and Frank and Jesse James, and you can see Cole's revolver in his holster at his waist, and lastly, we show his marble tombstone.

One photo in the gallery is the same type of Moore revolver, with ivory grip, without case, that was sold by the Moore family in 2009 in the US that sold for $ 4,888.
Every item is accompanied with our unique, Certificate of Authenticity. Of course any certificate of authenticity, given by even the best specialist dealers, in any field, all around the world, is simply a piece of paper,…however, ours is backed up with the fact we are the largest dealers of our kind in the world, with over 100 years and four generation’s of professional trading experience behind us.
Slightly sticky rotation action.  read more

Code: 24799

A Most Beautiful & Exemplary Work of Art. A Very Fine Large Long Barrel Boxlock Flintlock Brass Cannon Barrel Blunderbuss Pistol Circa 1730 by Renown Maker John Freeman of London

Superb silver fittings and elaborate scroll inlays stunningly depicting trumpets, drums, spears and cannon to the butt, and the silver wire appears to be 100% intact. With brass cannon barrel and lock, and safety mechanism by sliding the trigger guard forward once the pistol is cocked. Known as a Queen Anne flintlock this is a stunning example in wonderful condition, by one of the best makers of the day. Demon face butt mask in silver. 13 inches long overall.

Without doubt, especially considering the most rare design of silver inlay this is one of the finest examples in the best condition, we have ever seen.

The ‘Queen Anne’ style pistol is distinctive in that it does not have a ramrod. The barrel of the pistol unscrews and allows it to be loaded from the rear and near the touch hole at the breech of the barrel. These pistols are made in either Dog Lock or Flintlock styles.

The Queen Anne pistols were very popular and were made in a variety of calibers, usually about 38 to 50 bore. Boot pistols, Holster pistols, pocket pistols and Sea Service pistols were all made in Queen Anne style. This type is known as a Queen Anne pistol because it was during her reign that it became popular (although it was actually introduced in the reign of King William III).

The fine examples were made with silver fittings and or inlays, but the finest, with brass barrels and frames as well as silver mountings and inlays

As with all our antique guns, no license is required as they are all unrestricted antique collectables  read more

Code: 24860

19th Century 1850's English Tranter .36 calibre Double Trigger Revolver One of the Most Favoured Revolver's of The US Civil War Confederates

The Tranter revolver is a double-action cap and ball (percussion) revolver invented around 1856 by English firearms designer William Tranter (pictured below). The original Tranter’s operated with a special dual-trigger mechanism (one to rotate the cylinder and cock the gun, a second to fire it)
The revolvers in .36 and .44 calibre were popular with Confederate troops during the American Civil War and thousands of them were shipped from Birmingham, England to New Orleans under contract to the Griswold Company.

Tranter’s most successful series of arms were his “self-cocking” revolvers, which were initially introduced in 1853. The earliest revolvers utilized Robert Adams’ patent for a solid, one-piece frame and barrel that were machined from a single forging. Tranter’s initial production run of revolvers included both Adams 1851 Patent lock works, and Tranter's own patented lock works. The original “Tranter” type revolvers, known to collectors as 1st Model Tranter or sometimes “Adams-Tranter” revolvers due to the frame marking, had no provision for a fixed loading lever. The lever swiveled on a stud that projected from the left side of the frame, which had no provision to retain the lever when it was mounted on the revolver. The lever was intended to be stored in a case or carried in the pocket; hardly a practical solution if the user actually had to reload the revolver in the field. Most of these guns were manufactured on Adams Patent frames
Famous Tranter owners

Major Heros Von Borcke, CSA
The Pinkerton Detective Agency
General J.E.B. Stuart, CSA
Capt Charles Green, CSA
Chief Inspector Donald Swanson, Scotland Yard
Sherlock Holmes
Thomas Knowles
Murder of Peter Clark

The frame, under the grip bears a serial number 7 and another matching 7 partially under the spring , and another 7 on the wooden grip. The cylinder rotates sporadically and fires on the second trigger, the left side inverted Y safety spring has a thin arm crack, single nipple lacking. No maker engravings present, with regular view and proof stamps on every cylinder and barrel, both of which are standard features on all Confederate UK contract arms,  read more

Code: 24576