BEDFORD, Texas (July 1, 2025) – Simón Bolívar, “the George Washington of Latin America,” remains a symbol of liberty for millions worldwide. Bolívar’s name has commanded record-breaking auction results, and an ornate presentation flintlock belonging to the South American revolutionary expects to draw similar excitement during Rock Island Auction Company’s August 15-17 Premier Firearms Auction. Believed to be the final Bolívar-owned arm remaining in private hands, the piece was a gift to 'El Libertador' from his North American revolutionary counterpart, the Marquis de Lafayette.

This historic flintlock represents a powerful symbol of the transatlantic fight for independence that defeated empires and redrew borders across three continents. Lafayette, who fought alongside Washington during America’s War for Independence, carried the Spirit of 1776 back to Europe, helping ignite the French Revolution. Bolívar, inspired by both men, carried that same torch of liberty through the mountains and plains of South America, freeing six nations from the yoke of Spanish colonial rule. Washington’s republican ideals deeply influenced Bolívar’s vision of a free and united Latin America.

To honor Bolívar’s triumphs and shared convictions, Lafayette presented his fellow architect of liberty with a set of pistols and this masterfully crafted flintlock sporting gun. These fine French firearm were presented to Bolívar between 1825 and 1826, the same period the South American revolutionary received a portrait of President George Washington, a medal, and a lock of Washington's hair that was gifted by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Bushrod Washington, George Washington’s nephew and heir.

Crafted in 1822 by Parisian gunsmith Baucheron Pirmet, the flintlock is adorned in silver from the front sight bead to the intricately decorated mounts. Scenes from the mythic Calydonian boar hunt grace its silver furniture, echoing the heroic struggle against seemingly insurmountable odds. The stock ends in a masterfully carved boar’s head, a fierce and fitting symbol of strength and courage.

Long hidden from public view, the firearm’s journey from Bolívar’s hands to auction is as storied as the man himself. As Bolívar’s health waned, his beloved companion and revolutionary ally Manuela Sáenz entrusted the piece to Ricardo Illingworth, Bolívar’s close friend and business partner. It remained with the Illingworth family for generations before becoming a treasured piece in the Norman R. Blank Collection—renowned for its extraordinary European antiques and works of high art.

Now, for the first time since its creation, this extraordinary relic of freedom’s global legacy will be offered at public auction by Rock Island Auction Company. A symbol of unity across revolutions, continents, and centuries, this flintlock is not just a firearm—it is a testament to the enduring spirit of liberty.

“We’re 250 years from the start of the American Revolution and weeks away from Simón Bolívar’s birthday, and we have the honor to offer this historic firearm once owned by one of history’s greatest revolutionaries,” said RIAC President Kevin Hogan. “Having such a connection to Bolívar and Lafayette both, makes this an instant symbol of freedom and international liberty.”

The three day August auction will also offer an original Frederic S. Remington painting and a screen-used firearm of Steve McQueen.

About Rock Island Auction Company:

Rock Island Auction Company is the world’s no. 1 firearms auction company, and has been since 2003. Founded in 1993 by CEO Patrick Hogan, RIAC’s current Bedford, Texas venue has become the world selling headquarters for fine and historic arms, hosting all the company’s in-person auctions. Led by President Kevin Hogan, the company lives by its mission statement to “Elevate firearms collecting. Sell with Passion.” Best known for selling headline-grabbing arms, the company’s multiple auction formats cater to collectors of every experience level.

For more information, please visit www.rockislandauction.com or call 1-800-238-8022.

Media contact: Joel Kolander, (309) 797-1500 or [email protected]