Details of Lot 296
P. BERETTA
A SCARCE S1 MODEL 12-BORE SIDELOCK NON-EJECTOR OVER AND UNDER GUN, NO. 4651

28-inch monobloc barrels with 2 3/4-inch chambers, about 3/4 choke boring, solid file cut rib, Kersten bolt extension, the frame, locks and top lever engraved with acanthus and foliate scrolls surrounding scenes of dogs and game, 14 1/4-inch figured straight hand stock, 6lb. 12oz., Italian nitro proof, in its modern black leather Beretta custom case

The gun is sold with a maker's letter showing that construction of the gun was started in 1942, although it was not proofed and sold until 1945.

The S1 (SO1) model is listed as having been introduced in 1934 although early production was extremely limited and examples built prior to 1950 are extremely rare.
Fine Modern and Vintage Sporting Guns
Sotheby's, New Bond Street, London
12 December 2012
Commission is 25% ex. VAT. Artist's Resale Right may apply