Ep 3. Ladies' Muff Pistols/John Hancock's Book

In season 1 episode 3 of Auction Kings, titled "Ladies' Muff Pistols/John Hancock's Book," the Gallery 63 team is presented with two unique items for auction.

Firstly, a pair of Ladies' Muff Pistols, which were a popular accessory for women in the early 19th century. These guns were designed to fit inside a woman's muff, which was a fur hand-warmer commonly worn during winter months. The firearms are beautiful, silver-plated designs which reflect the elegance of their era.

Secondly, a historic manuscript belonging to one of America's founding fathers, John Hancock. The book is a ledger of legal cases tried by Hancock in the late 1700s and early 1800s, during his tenure as a judge in Massachusetts. The book features many famous cases and signatures, including that of John Adams.

As usual, the Gallery 63 team sets out to authenticate and appraise the items, before putting them up for auction. This can be a tricky process, as determining the rarity and value of objects from bygone times requires a great deal of knowledge and research.

The team enlists the help of experts, such as Horst, a firearms specialist who examines the muff pistols. He notes that these types of guns were usually quite risky to use, as they were small and difficult to handle. He also points out that the silver plating was not original to the guns, which could affect their value.

Meanwhile, Cindy, the book expert, delves into the history of John Hancock and the legal cases contained within his book. She discovers that many of the cases were related to trade disputes and maritime law, which were common issues during Hancock's time. She also notes that the book is in remarkable condition for its age, which adds to its value.

Alongside the main items, the Gallery 63 team receives a number of other interesting pieces for auction. These include vintage toys, sports memorabilia, and a bizarre automated woodcarving machine.

As the auction approaches, the team prepares for a busy day of bidding. The muff pistols generate a great deal of interest, with several potential buyers vying for them. The final bidding price is surprising and impressive, reflecting just how rare and sought-after these items are.

The John Hancock book also attracts some attention, particularly from history buffs and collectors of rare manuscripts. The book's unique history and connection to one of America's most famous figures make it an appealing addition to any collection.

Throughout the episode, the viewers get to see the inner workings of the Gallery 63 team. They witness the passionate debate and research that goes into appraising historical artifacts, as well as the excitement and anticipation of auction day.

Overall, "Ladies' Muff Pistols/John Hancock's Book" is an engrossing episode of Auction Kings. It showcases both the skill and expertise of the Gallery 63 team and the fascinating history behind some of America's most treasured objects. Fans of history and antiques alike will appreciate the insights provided by this captivating show.