
Civil War William W. Marston Three-Barrel 32 Rimfire Derringer C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,823.98
LSB#: WY241109WB010
Make: William W. Marston
Model: Three-Barrel Derringer
Serial Number: 519
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1864-1868 (C&R)
Caliber: .32 Rimfire
Action Type: Single Action, Pivoting Firing Pin with Indexed Fire
Markings: The left side of the frame is marked: WM. W. MARSTON PATENTED /MAY 26. 1857/ NEW YORK CITY. The serial number “519” is located on the grip frame under the grips, & on the barrel cluster near the hinge. The floral and filigree engraving is clear. The numbers on the selector are clear.
Barrel Length: 3 inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed brass blade on the top barrel, near the muzzle. The rear sight is a notch integral to the top of the barrel latch. It is offset to match the setting of the barrels.
Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are a two-piece walnut configuration, showing light handling wear. They remain in excellent overall condition, retaining much of their original varnish with only minor handling marks and no cracks or chips.
Type of Finish: Silver-plated brass Frame, Blued Barrels
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores remain in very good condition, with crisp rifling throughout. There is minor frosting and some light pinpricking in the grooves but no serious erosion or damage, indicating minimal use.
Overall Condition: The blued barrels retain approximately 50% of their original deep, dark finish, showing light thinning and fading from handling over time. The frame has developed a lovely “mustard” patina, indicative of the aged brass. The hammer retains about 30% of its original case-hardening colors, with the balance faded to a bluish-gray patina. The metal is smooth throughout, with minimal pinpricking or other blemishes. The matching serial numbers confirm that all parts are original to the pistol. The pistol is in very good condition for its age, showing wear consistent with light handling and careful preservation.
Mechanics: The action functions perfectly. The hammer locks tightly in the full-cock position and responds appropriately to the spur trigger. The pivoting firing pin rotates through its positions as designed, and the indicator on the right side of the frame accurately displays which barrel will fire next. The rotating indicator, while slightly tight, functions properly. The hinged barrels open smoothly when the top latch is rotated clockwise and closed securely, with no perceptible wobble or shake.
This specific Derringer was set for a retractable knife blade built into the left side of the three barrels. Though the knife is missing it makes for an interesting collectible as not many of these little defenders were ever set up with daggers.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment:
This William W. Marston three-barrel .32 Rimfire Derringer is a fascinating and highly collectible piece of firearms history. Manufactured between 1864 and 1868, this pistol showcases Marston’s innovative approach to multi-barrel design with its indexed firing mechanism and pivoting firing pin. These pistols were produced in limited numbers, with approximately 3,300 made, making them a rare find for collectors today.
The pistol retains a significant portion of its original finish, with an appealing “mustard” patina on the brass frame and 50% of the original blue on the barrels. The mechanics are sound, and the rotating firing pin mechanism works as designed. Its beautiful rosewood grips and original markings further enhance its collector appeal.
This specific Derringer was set for a retractable knife blade built into the left side of the three barrels. Though the knife is missing it makes for an interesting collectible as not many of these little defenders were ever set up with daggers.
This example is an excellent opportunity for Civil War collectors, collectors of 19th-century American firearms, or anyone interested in unique and historically significant pistols. In mechanically sound and visually striking condition, this Marston Derringer is a testament to the innovative craftsmanship of its era. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to look at the condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
