Collectors of antiques dream of finding rare weapons that have been exceptionally well-cared for. This concept is perhaps best represented by the term "one owner car" in the antique vehicle market; which invokes an antique lovingly protected by a single, faithful custodian over generations.
While the age difference prevents a direct "one owner" parallel in the antique gun world—firearms are centuries older than classic cars—the underlying search for sentiment remains. Collectors of antique weapons often seek out guns that have been held in the same family for generations or in a singular collection for decades.
The reasons for this preference are simple. Antiques kept "off the market" for a significant portion of their existence are generally more original and better preserved than those passed through numerous hands - the more owners an antique has had, the more likely it is that at least some of the subsequent owners may have attempted some degree of ill-advised "restoration," such as refinishing or part replacement, in a misguided attempt to "improve" their investment. However, in reality, it is the guns that are "untouched" and in good honest condition that command premium prices.
It is for this reason, that we are proud to present the guns from our latest acquisition, which directly speaks to the collector's dream: this collection was amassed by a single family in the 1920s and 1930s and was immediately placed into a museum, where it remained until we acquired it late last year. For nearly a century, these guns have been off the open market and under the professional care of a museum. This means the vast majority of these weapons are untouched and completely original; while those do show evidence of repair work, having had this work completed during the late 19th and early 20th Centuries! These are authentic time capsules, which we have chosen to present complete with their original, neatly applied museum ID numbers as a testament to their history. (The numbers can be easily removed with acetone, leaving no damage, but we believe they enhance the story.)
This unusual "break open" target pistol is unmarked, save for a set of Birmingham Proofmarks on the barrel and receiver; indicating it is English-made. This small caliber rimfire pistol was likely intended for use as a "parlor gun" for casual target shooting indoors. It's overall styling suggests it was likely made between the 1850's to 1870's.
The action is referred to as a "boxlock" mechanism, with the lock components housed inside the gun's frame, rather than a traditional side-mounted lock.
Mechanically, this pistol is in good condition. The hammer holds well on both full and half cock. The action is opened by manipulating the front trigger directly in front of the trigger guard. The barrel lock up is solid with no major wiggle or "play" between the receiver and barrel. The face of the hammer is large enough that it could be easily drilled and tapped for a centerfire firing pin; making this gun shootable once again..
The .32 caliber barrel is fully rifled and the bore shows sharp rifling with some darkness in the grooves but no major rust or pitting.
The walnut grip is in great condition with full checkering and a handsome silver escutcheon.
