C. Sharps Model 1A .22 Rim Fire 4-Barrel Pepperbox, MFD 1859-1874 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1251.56
LSB#: 220309JI019
Make: C. Sharps & Co.
Model: Four Barreled Pepperbox Model 1A
Serial Number: 56201
Year of Manufacture: 1859-1874
Caliber: .22 Short 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 “56201” and the bottom of the grip frame is marked “56201”.
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. The grips have some scattered minor nicks and scratches, notably on the bottom of the panels. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine-Plus condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Blue & Brass
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are dimt. The rifling is worn, but visible. There is scattered erosion and some pitting in the bores.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 50% of its metal finish. The barrels show a faint mottled patina. The barrels have scattered light pitting. The brass frame has gone to a mustard patina with sparse tiny pits throughout. There are some scattered nicks, dings, and scratches throughout. The screw heads are tool-marked with strong slots. The markings are partially worn wyet legible. Overall, this pistol is in about Very Good 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!