Need info/opinion on 1800's percussion ladies handgun?

[Frank Castle]

Looking for info/opinion in an antique percussion gun. It belongs to my brother in law, who inherited it. His grandmother brought it over from Scotland with her. I have no expertise in this area, so am asking the experts.

It apparantly is a fully functional black powder, percussion ladies gun and should be at least from the late 1800's

There are markings on the barrel, trigger guard and sides and a stamp on the underside of the barrel. You can tell that the screws/pins were all hand forged, by their irregularities.

If anyone has any info on it's history, value, maker etc. I would greatly appreciate your insight.

Photos are available at the links below
Thanks,
FC


http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y203/fcastle/IMG_5646.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y203/fcastle/IMG_5645_2.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y203/fcastle/IMG_5649_2.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y203/fcastle/IMG_5654.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y203/fcastle/IMG_5647.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y203/fcastle/IMG_5651.jpg

 

[tiriaq]

It is a pocket pistol of a type made in large numbers during the mid 19th century, very typical of the type. Not necessarily a lady's pistol. The proof marks are standard Birmingham view and proof marks. The engraving is what you would expect to see. Is the bore at the muzzle notched, like heavy rifling? If it is, that is for a wrench which could be used to turn off the barrel so the pistol could be loaded without a rod; otherwise muzzleloading would be the only way to charge it. The lack of a maker's or seller's name suggests that the pistol is a generic one made for the market. It appears to be in decent condition, and of average quality. Its value is likely in the $150-$300 range.

 

[Frank Castle]

Thanks

Thanks for the insight.. I'll passs it on.. I'm amazed that an antique that's almost 200 years old and funtional, would be only $300.. He's going to insure it.. Is there any place that would be able to officially certify (appraise) a gun like that?
FC

 

[tiriaq]

In what part of the country are you located? There are established dealers here and there. Did you assume that it would be really valuable, because it is 150 odd years old and functional?
Checked www .joesalter.com. He is a large established dealer, and is rarely oversold. Found these: #5062, singlr shot percussion pistol, lower quality than yours, $150; #3431, single shot percussion pistol, $235; #4169, matched pair of better quality pistols, $750. You could also have a look at www. auctionarms.com, in the pre-1898 section. Something similar may be there.

 

[Frank Castle]

Thanks.. will do.
FC