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AN EXCEPTIONAL AMERICAN RIMFIRE TARGET PISTOL, 19TH CEN.

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:2,000.00 USD Estimated At:3,000.00 - 4,000.00 USD
AN EXCEPTIONAL AMERICAN RIMFIRE TARGET PISTOL, 19TH CEN.
A magnificent rimfire single-shot presentation American target pistol. The bore is rifled .22 cal. The breech is decorated with fire-gilt Imperial eagle and floral motifs throughout the entire length of the barrel on both sides. The hammer is secured with a cat-bronze gilded lion. The hammer, trigger guard and steel grip terminal are engraved. The stock is a carved ebony. The are two symmetrical gilt-bronze decorative plates on either side of the stock.
The French Imperial eagle on the breech part of the barrel is a symbol of Napoleon III and means the pistol (probably one of the two cased pieces) was a gift made by the Emperor or received by one.
Ca. 1852 - 1870.

A few minor chips and scratches to the stock. The original gilding is almost entirely preserved. Good action.