FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2025 
The great names in gunsmithing feature prominently in this unique collection. Among them: Lepage, inventor of a new percussion system that paved the way for modern firearms; Boutet, the legendary artistic director of the Manufacture de Versailles; Pauly, a pioneer of self-contained cartridges; Lefaucheux, his successor, who developed the first breech-loading hunting rifle; and the iconic American manufacturers Colt and Smith & Wesson. Alongside these illustrious names, the collection also highlights creations by lesser-known artisans whose ingenuity left an indelible mark on their era.
Three Standout Lots :
Lot 54: A pair of experimental percussion pistols, FAVARCQ system, Type 1833, with hinged barrels. These experimental weapons demonstrate a revolutionary advance: loading from the breech rather than the muzzle, making reloading faster and easier. This innovative system became widespread in the second half of the 19th century. (Est. €2,000–€2,500)
Lot 208: A Frankenau system pinfire revolver concealed in a coin purse. This singular piece showcases the ingenuity of late 19th-century gunsmiths, ingeniously combining a coin purse with a hidden revolver—an extraordinary example of boundless creativity. (Est. €1,000–€1,500)
Lot 43: A pair of officer's percussion pistols signed by the Manufacture de Versailles. This prestigious signature, synonymous with elite production in France and Europe, makes these pieces a true treasure. Produced shortly before the closure of the Manufacture in 1818, this pair embodies the excellence of a bygone era. (Est. €1,500–€2,000)
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A Tribute to 19th-Century Gunsmithing Innovation
A n exceptional collection will be offered for sale on January 31 at Drouot, under the hammer of Nouvelle Étude. Preserved by an enthusiast for over 50 years, this collection celebrates the inventive genius and creativity that marked the 19th century—a pivotal era in the history of firearms. The sale of this ensemble represents a must-attend event for enthusiasts and collectors of antique firearms, with each piece reflecting exceptional craftsmanship.
Focusing on the second half of the century, the collection illustrates the transition to modern and reliable gunsmithing, whose guiding principles continue to define firearms of the 20th and 21st centuries. This period of intense innovation witnessed the birth of numerous patents, systems, and experiments. While some failed to achieve widespread success, they remain rare and precious testaments to the pursuit of technical progress.
The great names in gunsmithing feature prominently in this unique collection. Among them: Lepage, inventor of a new percussion system that paved the way for modern firearms; Boutet, the legendary artistic director of the Manufacture de Versailles; Pauly, a pioneer of self-contained cartridges; Lefaucheux, his successor, who developed the first breech-loading hunting rifle; and the iconic American manufacturers Colt and Smith & Wesson. Alongside these illustrious names, the collection also highlights creations by lesser-known artisans whose ingenuity left an indelible mark on their era.
Three Standout Lots :
Lot 54: A pair of experimental percussion pistols, FAVARCQ system, Type 1833, with hinged barrels. These experimental weapons demonstrate a revolutionary advance: loading from the breech rather than the muzzle, making reloading faster and easier. This innovative system became widespread in the second half of the 19th century. (Est. €2,000–€2,500)
Lot 208: A Frankenau system pinfire revolver concealed in a coin purse. This singular piece showcases the ingenuity of late 19th-century gunsmiths, ingeniously combining a coin purse with a hidden revolver—an extraordinary example of boundless creativity. (Est. €1,000–€1,500)
Lot 43: A pair of officer's percussion pistols signed by the Manufacture de Versailles. This prestigious signature, synonymous with elite production in France and Europe, makes these pieces a true treasure. Produced shortly before the closure of the Manufacture in 1818, this pair embodies the excellence of a bygone era. (Est. €1,500–€2,000)
