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Webley Fosbery Semi-Automatic Revolver

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:7,000.00 USD Estimated At:NA
Webley Fosbery Semi-Automatic Revolver
Auction Location:

16600 Aston Street
Irvine, CA
Named Wilkinson Sword Retailed Webley Fosbery Semi-Automatic Revolver, #2183, .455 MK II cal., 6'' barrel, blue finish, factory checkered gutta percha grips, with lanyard loop in butt. Revolver is additionally inscribed 1559 (probably a Wilkinson internal number) to the bottom of the triggerguard, as well as ''L.H. Cripps'' to bottom portion of barrel. Top barrel rib is hand inscribed ''Wilkinson Sword Co Pall Mall, London''. Invented by George Fosbery, a Victoria Cross winner, these unique revolvers are considered scarce with only about 4750 mfg'd in all models. It is interesting to note that the original prototype submitted in 1895 was a modified Colt Single Action. Target shooter Walter Winans used a Prideaux Speedloader (see next lot) and placed six shots in a 2'' bull's eye at twelve paces in seven seconds using a Fosbery in 1902. British officers used them from the Boer War through WWI. In popular culture Sam Spade's partner Miles Archer is killed with a ''Webley-Fosbery Automatic Revolver'' in the opening scene of Dashiell Hammett's ''The Maltese Falcon''. Condition is fine retaining 85%-90% thinning and toning blue, with good sharp edges and very little mechanical wear of any type. Grips with light flattening and small loss to upper front corners of both panels. Action functions perfectly in all regards, bore is mirror bright. A scarce and desirable sidearm retailed by a famous agent. Est.: $7,000-$15,000. (C&R/PPT).