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Rare breech-loading 16ga shotgun marked C.E. Billings patent November 2nd, 1875 on breech block. B

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,000.00 USD
Rare breech-loading 16ga shotgun marked C.E.  Billings patent November 2nd, 1875 on breech  block. B
All items are as is, no warranty or claims and All SALES ARE FINAL. Please examine prior to bidding as it is the bidder's responsibilty to establish condition, age, genuineness, value or any other determinative factors.
Rare breech-loading 16ga shotgun marked C.E. Billings patent November 2nd, 1875 on breech block. Blue and nickel finish, select wood stocks, no serial number visible, tang engraved with initials GOC. Charles Billingswas listed as a maker in Hartford, Connecticut, and apparently manufactured a vest-pocket derringer and worked for several major gun companies in the New England area and possibly Roper and Spencer. The gun shows a 23-1/2” round barrel, nickel plated frame, pewter forend cap, and is similar in styling to Roper. The barrel retains 75-85% original blue. The frame shows 80-90% original nickel, some erosion and pinprick pittingjust starting, some darkening where the nickel has lifted. The hammer shows breech block shows considerable original colors going to patina. The gun is loaded by pulling back a knurled lever on the right side ofthe action, which allows the breech block to pivot to the rear and activate an extractor at the bottom of the frame. The action is good, the bore is very good, the action is tight, the stocks are good to very good with