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Allen & Thurber Engraved Six Shot Pepperbox Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:500.00 USD Estimated At:1,400.00 - 2,400.00 USD
Allen & Thurber Engraved Six Shot Pepperbox Pistol
Included in this lot is a factory engraved Allen & Thurber six shot percussion “Pepperbox” revolving pistol, circa 1840’s, .32 caliber with 3 1/2" long early style ribbed barrels. This is the medium size Allen Pepperbox that found favor as a large pocket pistol and a holstered belt weapon. These early competitors to the Colt and Remington revolvers found favor with the “49ers” of California Gold Rush fame, western pioneers, and urban dwellers in need of a repeating firearm for self-defense. Many were carried as private weapons on both sides of the Civil War. Examples in fine condition are rare, as these handguns were often used for “daily carry” by their owners. This is a very fine example as it displays a lovely uncleaned patina and still retains traces of original brass finish on the barrels. The usual condition for one of these is heavily worn gray metal, at best, and, more often than not, badly rusted, pitted, and showing abuse. The frame is factory hand engraved, as are the nipple shield and back strap. This is a double action pistol, in which a single pull of the trigger revolves the barrel cluster, raises the bar-style hammer, and fires the gun. The bar hammer is marked “ALLENS PATENT”; it is also marked on a flute between the barrels “ALLEN THURBER”, “WORCESTER”, and "Patented 1837 Cast Steel". The walnut grips are excellent and exhibit much of the original finish. The pistol displays excellent mechanical condition and is a truly fine example of a uniquely American firearm from the pre-Civil War period. The pistol shows mechanical action with a heavy trigger pull. Serial Number: 447. This firearm qualifies as an Antique and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check.