The buying of antiques for investment purposes has been recognised for a long time as the perfect answer for people who have money they want to put aside for the mid to long-term. Antiques are tangible, physical investments that also can provide decoration and a sense of nostalgia, not to mention active discussion over dinner; and this is certainly the case with antique arms.
As an avid collector and dealer of antique arms for more than 40 years, I was drawn by the beauty of the fine engineering, skill and craftsmanship of the gunsmiths and the boundless history which each piece carries with it. The pieces I handle can be held freely in the UK and are exempt from licensing requirements under Section 58 (2) of the 1968 Firearms Act to be held as a curiosity or ornament and not fired.
Antique weapons are an attractive investment for people of all budgets, enabling collections to develop and expand. The UK remains one of the focal points for the worldwide trade in antique arms, with a number of top London-based international auction houses, such as Bonhams, Christies, Thomas del Mar and Holts, hosting regular specialist sales throughout the year. In addition, there are a number of specialist dealers who offer fine investment pieces as well as advice on sale and acquisition. These days most reputable dealers have a website and can be easily contacted.
When considering an investment in an antique weapon it is important to look for genuine original pieces which function perfectly, without modifications, refinishes or poor restorations and unsympathetic cleaning. Original cased examples by English makers, pairs, and those with genuine original accessories all add to value. The prices for genuine original pieces in fine condition are a premium as these pieces become more and more rare. The current trend towards fine cased duelling pistols by London makers is seeing top prices realised at auction. Provenance and accompanying historical documentation relating to former owners or battles can also add hugely to the value.
As a general rule flintlock, percussion and pinfire pieces should be sought with a view to avoiding all cartridge loading weapons, which are regularly subject to legislative change and licensing restrictions.
Since September 2013 the British Government introduced legislation which now makes it illegal for anyone with a criminal record to possess an antique arm of any type, this legislation is a positive step forward and was introduced in an attempt to reduce the availability of antique arms being used in illegal activity.
The good news is that for most of us any antique arm which is free from licence can be kept at home, displayed in a cabinet or on the wall as you would with any item of curiosity or historic interest. This is the case even though the antique arm may be perfectly capable of functioning and firing. It is important to note, however, that the purchase or acquisition of any ammunition does require a licence, even if it is for an antique arm which is exempt from licence. Unless you have an intention to shoot I would not recommend that anyone thinking about investing in antique arms consider purchasing an item that is subject to licence.
As with many forms of investment it is important to do some research. A host of information is available online these days with prices realised at auction, descriptions and images freely available
While it is not realistic to suggest that it is possible to discover a pair of pistols by Joseph Egg at a local flea market or stumble across a rare naval pistol by Henry Knock with provenance to Waterloo, investing in antique arms enables large and small investors to ‘dip in their toe’ while their confidence grows. It is interesting and rewarding, and provides secure returns in the mid- to long-term.
Barney Davies is founder of ROA Antique Arms International, International Dealers and Specialists in Fine Antique Arms
