Original U.S. .32cal Double Action Percussion Pepperbox Revolver by The Washington Arm Co. Serial 3274 - Circa 1856

Original Item: Only One Available. This is an example of the unusual firearm system known as the "PEPPERBOX" revolver, where instead of a cylinder with a single barrel, the gun features assembly of multiple barrels. They were so named because the muzzle is similar in appearance to the business end of a Pepper Pot from the the early days of Queen Victoria: a circle of round holes. Recently acquired at a military auction, this is a very nice condition American manufactured Pepperbox percussion pistol utilizing the 1849 patent of William W. Marston. Many similar guns were manufactured in New York by Sprague & Marston sometime between 1850 and 1859. However, W.W. Marston also produced guns under other trade names, including The Washington Arms Co. and others such as D.D. Cone, Union Arms, and Phoenix Armory.

This is the type exhibited on our Pepperbox Revolver offered here. The weapon is Six Shot in approximately .32 caliber measuring 7 1/2" overall with 3" barrels. These are VERY similar to those made by Ethan Allen, and only the markings make them easily discernable. The frame is engraved with "bank note" style floral scrolls and light engraving on the back strap and other metalwork, which is very well retained in most areas. The pistol shas been cleaned somewhat heavily, and is now polished bright steel, with some very nice walnut "bag" grips. These still retain a good amount of the factory "piano varnish" finish.

We did not see any markings on the barrel cluster, and the maker name is marked on the top of the percussion hammer:

THE
WASHINGTON
ARMS Co.

The revolver is also marked with serial number 3274 under the grips on the left side frame, and the frame is marked with 17, K, and 6 on the right side. There is also a 6 stamped onto the side of the cylinder between the cap nipple cones and on the left side of the trigger. That makes this a very nice "ALL MATCHING" example, which does not look to have had any parts swapped out over the years.

The Pepperbox is in very good condition, fully operational but NOT sold for firing. The tube hammer is in good shape, and functions well, with the cylinder cycling correctly. We did not notice any of the finicky behavior that we often see with revolvers of this age.

A lovely example of a hard to find pepper box revolver, ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1850-1859
Caliber: .31"
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Overall Length: 7 1/2 inches
Action: Percussion Cap
Feed System: Breech-Loaded - 6 barrels

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.