Two rare vintage sporting guns which were discovered in Derbyshire are set to go under the hammer at an Etwall auction house, and are expected to fetch a pretty penny.

The two fine 16-bore ejector shotguns were made by an English rifle-maker, William Richard Leeson, who was once employed by the son of Queen Victoria.

Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers in Etwall, has explained the pedigree of the guns and says they should attract a lot of interest when they go up for auction.

Mr Hanson said: "WR Leeson was renowned for quality. He cemented his success in 1890 when the firm was appointed rifle-maker to the Duke of Edinburgh. Recently, 16-bore guns have come back into fashion. They are popular in the United Kingdom and on the continent."

Each rifle is inscribed with the maker's name, 'W R Leeson, No 3 Warwick Street, Regent Street, London'
Each rifle is inscribed with the maker's name and address: 'W R Leeson, No 3 Warwick Street, Regent Street, London'

The rifles each have 28-inch steel barrels with two and a half inch chambers, and are engraved with 'WR Leeson, No 3 Warwick Street, Regent Street, London'.

Mr Hanson said: "Following the aftermath of the First World War, WR Leeson's business would have been much reduced. We know the firm's 1921 address corresponds to their move before the closure of the business in 1933.

"The estimate on the shotguns is £8,000 to £12,000. We hope with sporting interest across Derbyshire, Staffordshire, Leicestershire, Warwickshire and neighbouring rural counties, these shotguns will find a new home and be looked after for the next generation."

Hansons Auctioneers

The two firearms will be sold as part of Hansons' sporting guns and country pursuits auction on September 25.

Information about the guns is available by contacting Hansons Auctioneers by email at service@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk or by calling 01283 733988.