Original Item: Only One Available. This is a lovely example of a European Continental style percussion revolver, which definitely looks to be a nice high end example. It features a lovely Nickel Silver frame that is covered on both sides with foliate engraving, and there is a lovely engraved accent on the rear of the grip frame as well. We have seen some British pepperbox revolvers that have a similar style, and it's very possible that the action was adopted from one of those, as the action mechanics are completely behind the cylinder.

We checked the revolver thoroughly, even under the grips, and we were not able to locate any type of maker mark, which definitely seems odd given the high level of manufacturer. It could be that it was custom made, or that it was made for export, and intended to be marked by the retailer. The right underside facet of the octagonal barrel is marked with the CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / BPC "black powder proof" and CROWN / CROSSED SCEPTERS / V "viewed" marks from the city of Birmingham. There are additional "viewed" marks on the cylinder, one next to each cap nipple cone. This city was well known for its firearms industry, which supplied many guns to smaller gun shops and outfitters.

At first we thought the frame could be plated brass, but removing the grip scales shows that it is solid Cupro Nickel alloy, usually called Nickel Silver or "German Silver". Somewhat more resilient than brass, we have rarely seen this used as a frame material, as it is slightly harder to work with. The finish on the metalwork is excellent, with the nickel silver parts showing just a bit of oxidation. The the steel components show a lovely patina, with much of the original bluing retained on the sides and bottom of the barrel and loading rammer. The checkered grip scales look to be walnut, and have a lovely color and a nice finish, with a small sliver missing from the left side.

We tested the action, and it functions well, and does not appear to have any issues with indexing or cycling. There is a bit of wobble at full cock, but that most likely is inherent to the design. The bore is in very good condition, showing a bright finish and clear rifling, which looks to have about 16 grooves, popular with early percussion revolvers. We did note that when the retainer for the loading rammer was installed, it does intrude a bit into the barrel, so it probably was repaired at one point for display only. The cylinder is in great shape, with the cap nipple cones in great ship, and 5 of 6 are clear.

The revolver is exactly what a Victorian Gentleman might have concealed in his overcoat pocket to deal with the then all too common Foot Pads and Brigands. Nicely engraved decoration, and a fantastic look. Ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1850
Caliber: approx .41"
Ammunition Type: Cap and Ball
Barrel Length: 5 3/8 inches
Overall Length: 11 1/2 inches
Action: Double Only
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

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