Original Victorian Era Belgian Double Barreled Percussion Pistol with Burl Wood Grip and Engraved Frame - Circa 1840

Original Item: Only One Available. This lovely double barreled pocket percussion pistol was made in Liège, Belgium, almost certainly for the European and American export markets. These were quite popular for self-protection, and having two barrels definitely would give the owner increased protection whilst in their vest pocket. Pistols like this were equally at home on dark Streets of New York or of London in Victorian England. It features some lovely floral designs engraved into the sides of the frame, as well as a lovely "burl" wood grip.

The smoothbore barrels measure 2 3/4" in length, and have grooves on the muzzle so they can be unscrewed, however they are currently frozen. Both are marked with a CROWN / M Belgian inspection marks, as well as some other markings that we cannot quite make out due to wear. We checked the bores, and there is past oxidation and fouling on the interior and like most that we see. The right barrel is also a bit wider in bore than the left barrel. The left side of the frame is marked with the E / L G / * in an Oval proof, indicating manufacture in Liège, Belgium, and there are some other proof marks on the frame as well. The pistol measures 7 1/4" overall, and features a very nice wooden "bag" style grip, which is very comfortable to hold. It looks to be made of lovely "burl" wood, and looks to have had an escutcheon on the back of the grip at some time, however it is now missing.

Condition of the pistol is very good, showing a lovely gray aged patina, with evidence of past peppering. The engraved designs on the sides of the "boxlock" frame are still well retained, as is the simple engraving on the receiver tang. There is powder burn on the cap nipple cone bolsters and cones, which look to be original. Both hammers will still cock and dry fire, however neither holds correctly at half cock.

A very nice early Victorian Era self defense pistol, ready to Display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1840
Bore Diameter: about .43"
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder with Percussion Cap
Overall Length: 7 1/4 inches
Barrel Length: 2 3/4 inches
Action: Percussion Box Lock - 2 hammers
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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.