C. Sharps 4-Barrel Pepperbox Derringer .22 Rimfire 2.5” 1859-1874 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,150.00
LSB#: WY250403JM009
Make: Sharps
Model: 4-Barrel Pepperbox Derringer
Serial Number: 57108
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1859–1874
Caliber: .22 Rimfire
Action Type: Break Action, Quad Shot, Single Action, Spur Trigger
Markings: The left side of the brass frame is marked “C. SHARPS / PATENT 1859”. The right side is marked “C. SHARPS / PHILADA. PA.”. The bottom of the grip is marked with the serial number “57108”.
Barrel Length: 2 ½”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small brass bead. There is a v-notch groove in the frame that acts as a rear sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are floral-engraved hard rubber grip panels. The grips show sharp detail and only minor wear. There are no chips or cracks. The grips are in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Brass Frame with Blued Barrels
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores show scattered light pitting and fouling, with visible rifling in all four barrels. In this writer’s opinion, the bores rate 6 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 10% of its metal finish. The barrel group has a mottled gray patina with surface oxidation. The brass frame has a naturally aged patina with some small dings and wear consistent with age. The screw heads are serviceable. The markings remain clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Good-Very Good condition for an antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrel group rotates and locks into place properly, and the firing pin rotates through the four positions. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This is an antique Sharps 4-barrel pepperbox derringer, a clever and compact design that was highly favored for self-defense during the mid-to-late 19th century. The four barrels rotate via an internal cam with each shot, allowing four shots before reloading—a high capacity for its time.
These pistols were popular among gamblers, travelers, and lawmen who needed a pocket-sized backup weapon. The brass frame and engraved grips give it a distinctive old-world charm. This example is chambered in .22 Rimfire, making it one of the more desirable and uncommon variants, as many were .32 or .30 caliber.
This Sharps derringer will appeal to collectors of American percussion and rimfire pocket pistols, particularly those interested in innovative designs from the 1800s. Its antique status makes it a great candidate for display without the need for FFL transfer in most jurisdictions. A classic piece of American firearms ingenuity, this Sharps deserves a place in any Old West or Civil War-era collection. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
