This is a .45 caliber percussion pocket derringer made by Henry Deringer of Philadelphia, Pa. circa 1860. This beautiful little pistol measures 7 1/2" overall and has a 4 1/8" barrel. The barrel is round with a flat top and has seven groove rifling. The bore is in good condition, just needs a good cleaning. The finish on the barrel is the original brownish red simulated Damascus that Deringer used. The breech is octagonal and stamped with on the top flat DERINGER/PHILADEL'A. On the left flat is a P with a floral motif. The breech and tang are blued, while the hammer and lockplate are casehardened. Decorative floral motif's adorn the barrel tang, hammer and lockplate. The lockplate is also stamped DERINGER/PHILADEL'A. The nose cap, wedge escutcheons, flash plate, trigger guard, shield and butt cap are all german silver. The trigger guard is engraved and has a pineapple finial. The walnut stock retains it's original varnish finish. The wood is immaculate, having one tiny area of loss on the right side by the nose cap and a small age crack on the left side by the lockplate screw. The checkered grip shows considerable wear, but is still visible. The nose cap and trigger guard also show wear. The wooden ramrod is still with this fine little weapon. Whoever owned this one kept it close to his heart, literally! Not sure if this one was carried during the War of Northern Aggression, but it was around back then.If you collect derringer's this will make an excellent addition to your collection.

Item # AA870

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