An antique firearm – which belonged to a pioneering north-east shipbuilding magnate – could fetch thousands of pounds when it goes under the hammer next week.
The 80-bore silver-mounted belt pistol, designed to be worn with Highland dress, is being sold by London-based Holt’s Auctioneers on Thursday.
The firm estimates its value at between £2,000 and £3,000.
At one stage the artefact belonged to Aberdeen businessman Charles Mitchell – a pivotal figure in the growth of shipbuilding in north-east England.
Chris Beaumont, of Holt’s, explained its historical significance.
He said: “The distinctive design of the Scottish belt pistol was as much a symbol of status as it was a simple firearm.
“Worn on a sash belt as part of formal dress, they were a highly visible display of wealth and station.
“Often highly decorated they have always had a worldwide appeal – it has even been posited that ‘the shot that was heard around the world’ that started the American War of Independence was fired from one such pistol.
“Though relatively scarce, they are often found in better condition than their less decorative cousins – and this is a very nice example both in terms of quality and condition.”
Born in 1820, Mr Mitchell studied chemistry and physics at the city’s Marischal College.
After leaving university, he joined local shipbuilding firm Simpson and Company on an engineering apprenticeship – before moving to Newcastle in 1842, where he took up a job with J.H.S Coutts Shipbuilders.
In 1853, he established his own firm, Charles Mitchell and Company, which achieved great success, building warships for Russia and ships for the coal trade.
But Mr Mitchell never forgot his roots in the north-east of Scotland and was a major benefactor to his former university. The Mitchell Tower and Mitchell Hall, both now part of Aberdeen City Council’s Marischal College headquarters, are named after him.
