A pair of 20-bore South American silver mounted Miquelet-lock pistols are to cross the block at Bonhams London on July 23.
The lot is expected to make £12,000-15,000 ($18,503-23,128).
 The silver pistols are thought to originate in Mexico |
Each of the guns displays elaborate foliate engraving and is believed to originate in Mexico in the late 18th century.
"Miquelet-lock" refers to the distinctive snap lock used to ignite the gunpowder. It was developed in Spain and spread through Spanish colonies around the world.
An Eastern-European wheel-lock tschinke rifle also displays extravagant styling and is valued at £10,000-14,000 ($15,419-21,586).
David Williams, Bonhams' head of antique arms and armour, comments: "The sale provides a snapshot of the gun-makers art. Gentlemen would give a great deal of thought to the decoration of their guns.
"I suppose you could compare it to someone today buying an Aston Martin and the thought and cost that goes into customizing the interior with fine wood and leather and discreet decor."
Other lots in the sale include a rare 10th-11th century Viking sword valued at £6,000-9,000 ($9,251-13,877).
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