Original U.S. Sprague & Marston .34cal Double Action Percussion Pepperbox Revolver Circa 1851 - Matching Serial 46

Original Item: Only One Available. Pepperbox revolvers were so named because of the similarity of the front view of the weapon was so reminiscent of a Pepper Pot / Grinder of the time being a circle of round holes. Recently acquired at a military auction, this is an excellent condition American manufactured Pepperbox percussion pistol utilizing the 1849 patent of William W. Marston. Most of these were manufactured in New York by Sprague & Marston sometime between 1850 and 1859. It looks to have only seen light use, and is definitely the best example that we have ever had the pleasure of offering.

The frame is engraved with floral scrolls and light engraving on the back strap and other metalwork, including the flash guard around the cap nipple cones around the rear of the cylinder. The engraving is in great shape, and we can even see some of the original blued finish in the more protected areas. The lovely black walnut "bag" grips are held in place by a cross screw with keyed iron escutcheons.

The barrel cluster is in lovely condition, and the markings on the flats between the barrels are still clear, reading:-

SPRAGUE & MARSTON      NEW·YORK

CAST STEEL       WARRANTED

The markings on the bar hammer are also still well preserved, with W. W. MARSTON on the top, with PATENT 1849 on the left and NEW·YORK on the right. The revolver is marked with serial number 46 under the grips, with 46A stamped on the rear of the cylinder and on the inside of the trigger guard. 46A is also written in pencil on the inside of both grip scales, making this a very nice "ALL MATCHING" example, with no parts swapped out, and its a great one!

The revolver functions beautifully, properly indexing and dry firing when the hammer is pulled. There is no cylinder lock on this design, so the barrel can be spun freely, however there is a tension spring on the arbor pin that keeps it in place. We measured the bore, and it comes out to about 0.34-0.35", which is definitely larger than we are used to seeing. These are supposed to be mostly in .31", with some in 0.32", but this may have been a special order.

A very interesting example of a hard to find pepper box revolver in great condition, ready to research and display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1851
Caliber: .34"
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder
Overall Length: 8 inches
Barrel Length: 3 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.