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Deluxe Factory Engraved Gold and Silver Political Gift Moore's Patent Number One Breechloading Derri

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:2,250.00 USD Estimated At:4,500.00 - 6,500.00 USD
Deluxe Factory Engraved Gold and Silver Political Gift Moore's Patent Number One Breechloading Derri
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Deluxe Factory Engraved Gold and Silver Political Gift Moore's Patent Number One Breechloading Derringer with Patriotic Motif

Manufactured by Moore's Patent Fire Arms Company from 1860 to 1865. The top of the barrel is marked "MOORES PAT. FA. CO. BROOKLYN N.Y." and "PAT.FEB 24 1863" is present on the underside, as well as the serial number The matching assembly number "I 42" is marked on the inside of the hammer cut out and rear of the barrel. This particular derringer is extremely rare in that it was made to be given as a gift to U.S. Congressmen and senators who sat on military committees in hopes of landing a military contract. The barrel is silver and the frame was gold washed. The barrel has a scalloped and dot border pattern running along the top and sides, with scroll designs at the breech and muzzle and a pair of forward pointing arrows. The sides of the frame are nearly covered in a scroll engraving on a punch dot background with a flower on the top directly ahead of the hammer well, half moon designs above and below the grip screw, and checkered oval panels on the sides. A spread-winged eagle with American shield is present behind the hammer with a decorative checkered panel below that. Blade front and hammer notch rear sights. There is a photo of a silver and gold Moore's Patent Derringer with very similar frame engraving and the eagle shield motif on the top of the frame in "The Deringer In America" by Eberhart and Wilson on page 123. It is estimated that less than 25 of these derringers were finished and decorated in this manner and given to political figures.

Manufucture: Moores Patent Firearms Co
Model: Derringer
BBL: 2 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Guage: 41 RF
Finish: gold/silver
Grips: metal
Serial Number: 4281

Fine. The barrel retains 70% of the original silver plating with a smooth gray patina on the balance. Traces of the original gold are present on the frame, strongest down in the engraving, lending a fine contrast to the attractive antique patinated brass. The engraving and markings are crisp and clear. Mechanically excellent.