Munich, August 2025
A rousing premiere at Hermann Historica: the special firearms auction
In its special auction on 24 July 2025, Hermann Historica presented a lineup of over 950 first-class collector's items, ranging from antique and civilian firearms right through to service weapons. A premiere for the auction house, it was the first time that an entire auction had been dedicated exclusively to antique, historical and modern firearms. The exceptionally high demand gave rise to veritable bidding battles, resulting in some remarkable price increases and encouraging sales quotas.
At ten o'clock sharp, the doors opened for this special auction, showcasing a wide selection of antique firearms.
Heading the parade of prizes was a mid-17th century wheellock rifle (tschinke) lavishly inset with bone (lot number 20). The fine inlays of polished and blackened bone and mother-of-pearl depicting wild beasts, hounds and mythical creatures on every surface added the final flourish to this magnificent rifle. Although bids had been invited from 10,800 euros, the hammer only fell at 11,500 euros.
Equally sought-after was a battle axe with integrated flintlock pistol from the early 18th century (lot number 70). The unusually superb, ostentatious combination firearm boasted a delicately engraved axe blade at the muzzle, with a simple flintlock as the basis of the eccentric weapon. Featuring opulent bone inlays on its stock and butt plate, the weapon was embellished all over with hunting motifs, tendrils and grotesque masks. The asking price of 2,500 euros was ultimately quadrupled.
Then the civilian firearms took centre stage. One highlight was a Borchardt C 93 with the original carrying case (lot number 1084). This distinguished pistol is believed to be one of the first with a fixed magazine, marking a milestone in the history of self-loading pistols. Numerous offers had been submitted in advance for this lot with its original accessories, and no wonder: this model is hard to come by, even on the international market. It changed hands for 12,000 euros, its estimate of 9,800 euros notwithstanding.
Next up, after a fierce bidding battle, a DWM 02 Luger carbine with matching numbered stock emerged as the most expensive weapon of the day. A desirable piece for collectors and historians alike, the elegant, precisely crafted weapon paired craftsmanship with technical sophistication. The original combination of carbine and detachable stock is a rare find these days, let alone in this quality. The pièce de résistance in excellent, original condition finally coaxed an enthusiast into parting with 23,000 euros (lot number 1087).
Among the service weapons, a Polish Nagant NG 30 pistol by Radom certainly caused a stir. The extraordinary firearm soon exceeded the guide price of 2,000 euros. Following a torrent of bids from potential buyers, the hammer fell at the final price of 10,000 euros (lot number 1463).
Krieghoff was commissioned to produce the pistol 08 especially for the Luftwaffe in 1936 (lot number 1698). The rare piece notched up points among collectors for its outstanding, immaculate condition and matching numbers. It now delights a new owner for 6,600 euros, well over double its reserve of 2,800 euros.
To keep withdrawal symptoms at bay – and acquire some rare pieces – visitors are invited to browse Hermann Historica's "Post-auction sale" section. Until 7 September 2025, all unsold lots from this auction may be purchased for their catalogue price, plus a buyer's premium. Please see www.hermann-historica.com for further details and the respective catalogues.
Please note: all prices quoted are net prices and do not include the 29.5% premium (and VAT).
Best regards
The Hermann Historica press team
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