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LOT 3063
Scarce and Attractive Samuel J. Hoggson Game Panel Scene Exhibition Engraved T.J. Stafford
Single Shot Deringer - NSN, 22 RF cal., 3 1/2 inch solid rib bbl., nickel/gold finish, pearl grips.
Manufactured in the early 1860s, this is one of only an estimated 2,100 T.J. Stafford single shot deringers
produced, with this unique example exhibiting an exhibition quality level of engraving executed by
Samuel J. Hoggson. Hoggson is probably best known for his masterful engraving for the New Haven
Arms Company on their iconic Henry rifles, and this little deringer shows many of his typical patterns.
Both the New Haven Arms Company and Stafford’s firm were located in New Haven, Connecticut, so it is
no surprise that they would have employed the same local engraver. This specific pistol shows near full
coverage engraving on the frame that shows dense acanthus scroll with a bird nestled in the leaves on the
left. This bird is nearly identical to the one engraved on a deluxe, “triple presentation” Henry rifle which is
pictured and discussed on p. 18 of “Winchester Engraving” by R.L. Wilson. Henry comparisons continue on
the breech sides of the barrel, where this pistol is engraved with a large flower bloom of exactly the same
pattern seen on the forward panels of the frame on many engraved Henrys. It is very clear that Hoggson
took heavy inspiration from his engraving on Henry rifles when embellishing this pistol. The single line T.J.
Stafford address is marked on the barrel rib, and the 1860 patent date is marked on the butt. The rear face
of the barrel is marked “00”, which is repeated on the barrel latch and left of the grip frame. It is fitted with
a German silver blade front sight and a pair of smooth pearl grips. It is quite possible that this deringer
was specifically embellished to match an iconic, “triple signed”, deluxe, Hoggson engraved Henry rifle!
CONDITION: Fine, retains most of the period plated nickel on the barrel with scattered visible pitting
under the plated finish, and the frame showing a mix of replated gold and bright brass with a few patches
of darker aged patina. The engraving remains distinct overall. The grips are very fine with a few light edge
chips. Mechanically fine.
Estimate: 2,500 - 4,000
Similar Hoggson game scene engraving is
pictured in Winchester Engraving by Wilson
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