Original Victorian Era Belgian Double Barreled Percussion Pistol with Engraved Frame Serial 2584 - 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. 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.

The smoothbore barrels measure 3 1/4" in length, and have grooves on the muzzle so they can be unscrewed, however they are both currently frozen. They look to be spiral forged, and do not have any markings, however the left side of the frame is marked with the E / L G / * in an Oval proof, indicating manufacture in Liège, Belgium. The pistol measures 8" overall, and features a very nice wooden "flat bottom" style grip, which is very comfortable to hold, and also has butt cap compartment with a shell shaped lid for an extra bullet. It looks to be made of fruit wood, and and has had a shield shaped silver escutcheon inset into the rear.

Condition of the pistol is very good, showing a lovely gray aged patina, with some evidence of past peppering. The engraved "bank note" style designs on the sides of the "boxlock" frame are still well retained, as is the simple foliate engraving on the tang and trigger guard. There is some powder burn on the cap nipple cone bolsters, but the cones themselves look to have been replaced during the pistol's service life, so they show much less wear. 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 .40"
Ammunition Type: Lead Ball & Powder with Percussion Cap
Overall Length: 8 inches
Barrel Length: 3 1/4 inches
Action: Percussion Box Lock - 2 hammers
Feed System: Muzzle-Loaded

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