C. Sharps Model 1A .22 Rim Fire 4-Barrel Pepperbox, MFD 1859-1874 Antique

SOLD FOR: $1382

LSB#: 210911MM10

Make:  C. Sharps & Co.

Model: Four Barreled Pepperbox Model 1A

Serial Number: 39461

Year of Manufacture:  1859-1874

Caliber: .22 Rimfire (Black Powder Only)

Action Type:  Single Action 4 Barreled Breech Loading Pepperbox with Rotating Firing Pin in Hammer

Markings: The left side of the frame is marked “C. SHARPS / PATENT 1859” in a circle. The right side of the frame is marked “C. SHARPS & CO / PHILADA. PA.” in a circle. The flat on the underside of the barrels is marked “38461” and the bottom of the grip frame is marked “38461”.

Barrel Length: 2.5″

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass bead in the middle of the upper barrel channel. The rear sight is a “V” groove in the top of the frame.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The gutta-percha grips are two-piece hard rubber held to the frame by a brass cap screwed to the bottom of the frame. The panels have decorative floral scrolls throughout. There are small spots of material loss at the top of each panel. The grips have some scattered minor nicks and scratches. The panels show a brownish discoloration from age. There are no cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition as Antique.

Type of Finish: Blue & Brass

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bores are gray. The rifling is worn, but visible. There is scattered moderate erosion and light pitting in the bores.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 60% of its metal finish. The barrels show a mottled patina with scattered erosion and light patina. The brass frame has gone to a light mustard patina. There are some scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches throughout. The screw heads are tool-marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Very Good-Fine condition as Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: This is a four barreled pepperbox by C. Sharps. Per “Flayderman’s Guide” by Norm Flayderman, this is a Model 1A, chambered for .22 rimfire. These neat little pistols were manufactured by the thousands between 1859 and 1874. They had a very unique design, with a firing pin in the hammer which rotates every time the hammer is cocked. The Model 1A is easily distinguishable by its gutta-percha hard rubber grips, which have beautiful decorative floral scrolls. It will make a nice display in a collection of early American derringers, pepperboxes and small pocket pistols. Please see our photos and good luck!