DESCRIPTION:
Small Arms - D. Moore of Brooklyn, NY, Political Factory Engraved No.1 derringer pistol, Civil War Era, manufactured approximately 1864, .41 caliber rim fire, exposed trigger, gold-plated brass receiver and handle with factory floral engraved details including a spread wing eagle and shield behind the hammer, 2-1/2 inch barrel with floral engraved details as well as arrows pointing to the firing end, top stamped "MOORES PAT FA Co, BROOKLYN, NY." and underneath the barrel "PAT FEB 24 1863," s#4247. Includes what appears to be its original fitted presentation box with 6 rounds of 41 caliber black powder rim fire ammunition and a photo postcard of a scantily clad woman, possibly a madam. These derringers were made as gifts for senators and congressmen sitting on military committees in the hopes of getting an arms contract; it is estimated that as few as 25 were made to as much as 60, truly an incredible piece of history for the Civil War or firearms collector. For reference these are mentioned in "The Deringer in America" by Eberhart & Wilson, on page 123, and the "The Collecting of Deringers Manufactured by Moore, National and Colt" by Eberhart, on page 19.
CONDITION:
Good action; fine-plus overall cosmetic condition, rifled bore with light pitting, fine barrel with loss of original silver-plated finish, numerous small dings on frame and barrel as well as scattered areas of oxide, pitting and finish loss to side plates where brass is showing through; trigger with light pitting. Included box shows light wear, light warp to the top cover wood with the purple velvet interior showing several areas of wear. Items in this firearm collection are written up to the best of our knowledge. It is up to bidders to make final determination as to value. Any additional information that is shared with us will be passed along to the public by updating our descriptions; in person preview is recommended.
ESTIMATE:
$2000
-
$4000
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"