A rather splendid old gent in Holts March auction:
Lot 955
"* F. BEESLEY
A RARE .577 BLACK POWDER EXPRESS ROTARY-UNDERLEVER DOUBLE HAMMER RIFLE, serial no. 1773,
26in. black powder only barrels, partially matted raised rib with open sights and two folding leaf sights, white metal-inlaid sighting lines and marked for 100, 200 and 300 yards, tubes re-engraved 'F. BEESLEY. FROM PURDEY'S. 2. ST. JAMES'S STREET. LONDON.', Jones patent rotary-underlever, carved percussion fences, rebounding back-action locks, one hammer screw replaced, fine border and acanthus scroll engraving, the action bar with central floral details, retaining some colour-hardening and finish (partially renewed), 14 5/8in. figured pistolgrip stock with cheekpiece, engraved steel pistolgrip-cap, sling eyes and including 7/8in. rubber recoil pad (distressed), fore-end with grip-catch release, weight 12lb. 8oz., in its brass-cornered leather case, the lid outer marked 'MITFORD E. JAMES.'
Estimate 8,000-10,000"
The link is here:
http://auctions.holtsauctioneers.com/asp...0&saletype=This gun was sold in 1907 though it had probably been hanging around the shop for a few years beforehand. Beesley made only a handful of double rifles and I shall be interested to inspect the proof marks come the viewing days.
Tim
