Original item. Only One Available. This is a very nice French style double barrel pinfire pistol, most likely made in Belgium just before the U.S. Civil War. We were not able to find any markings, which is common for Belgian arms not made under contract for private purchase. It follows the classic French lines, and has a grip featuring the usual "scallop" design next to the frame, with a lovely taper as it curves down to the butt.

The Pinfire system was the earliest form of "Cartridge" developed with a pin projecting out at 90 degrees to the cartridge case. When depressed by the falling hammer the cartridge discharged. At the time up against muzzle loading Revolvers these were revolutionary. Like most things by the end of the Civil War technology had moved on and in the late 1860's regular type cartridges as we know them today had been introduced. Never as popular as might have been expected and by 1870 quite obsolete.

This example is lovely, with lots of foliate engraving on the lock and it features an "under lever" opened breech, not the usual push button that we see. The pistol measures 9" in overall length with dual 3 3/4" barrels, and from bore measurements we believe it is in 9mm Lefaucheux. The pistol features dual triggers and lovely "dolphin" shaped hammers, which strike downward onto the pins. We checked the functionality, and the breech opens correctly, and both hammers have a half cock position, however neither holds in this position when the trigger is pulled. We do not know if this is by design or whether the tumblers are worn.

Condition is very good, showing a lovely aged gray patina on the metalwork, with just a few areas of light peppering. The bores both still show clear rifling, however the right barrel definitely has some oxidation and fouling, while the left barrel is great, showing almost no use or oxidation at all.

Ideal for any overcoat or uniform pocket, in working order and nice matured condition. A great antique dating to approximately 1855 and therefore pre U.S. Civil War.

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1855
Caliber: 9mm Lefaucheux
Ammunition Type: Pinfire Cartridge
Overall Length: 9 inches
Barrel Length: 3 3/4 inches
Action: Single
Feed System: Top Break Single Shot

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.