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LOT 3246
Scarce and Outstanding Sharps Second Type Breech Loading Single Shot Percussion Pistol with Rare Extra Length Barrel -
Serial no. 842, 36 cal., 8 1/2 inch round bbl., blue finish, walnut grips. Reportedly, 850 breech loading pistols were manufactured by C. Sharps & Co. of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania circa 1854-1857. Of these, approximately 350 were this second variation. This second type pistol has a .36 caliber round barrel, lever activated dropping block action similar to that found on Sharps rifles, a pellet primer that is integral with the frame, brass blade front sight with integral notch rear sight in the frame, adjustable trigger and one-piece walnut grip. “C. SHARPS & CO’S/RIFLE WORKS/PHILA. PA.” marked on the right of the frame, and “C. SHARPS/PATENT/1848-52” marked on the left of the frame. The serial number “842” is marked on the rear of the breech block and underside of the left sideplate. The barrel and frame have a high polish blue finish, and the hammer and lever are color casehardened.
CONDITION: Exceptionally fine, retains 85% plus highly attractive bright original high polish blue finish with some scattered light scratches and handling marks, 75% of the vivid original case colors on the hammer with the lever showing strong traces of original case colors with smooth gray patina. The grip is excellent with a few light handling marks, some scattered small dings concentrated on the butt, and retains nearly all of its attractive original varnish finish. The pistol has absolutely sharp markings
and edges overall. Mechanically excellent. This desirable Sharps Second Type single shot pistol is one
of the top few finest examples of its kind extant and would make an excellent addition to any early
American firearms collection!
Estimate: 8,500 - 13,000
Only 850 breech loading pistols were
manufactured by C. Sharps & Co. Of those, approximately 350 were the second variation, like this pistol.
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