German Crown V & Crown CP Proofed Folding Trigger 6-Shot .22RF Cane Gun
SOLD FOR: $1,730.00
LSB#: WY250408GF012
Make: Unmarked, German Manufacture
Model: Folding Trigger Cane Gun
Serial Number: NSNV
Year of Manufacture: Circa Late 19th to Early 20th Century; C&R Eligible
Caliber: .22 Rimfire (6-Shot Cylinder)
Action Type: Double Action Revolver Mechanism, Folding Trigger, Concealed in Cane Housing
Markings: The cylinder is marked with both Crown over “V” and Crown over “CP” German commercial proof marks. These are pre-1912 Imperial German proofs—with the Crown/V denoting “Vorzugsarbeit” (superior finish) and Crown/CP signifying final nitro proofing. These marks, along with the design characteristics, confirm that the piece is of German origin.
Barrel Length: No barrel present; this design fires directly from the cylinder
Sights / Optics: None, as is standard for cane guns of this configuration
Stock / Handle Configuration & Condition: The grip is made of stag horn, fitted to the rear of the revolver frame. A visible crack and period repair are present, but the repair is stable and the horn remains securely fitted. The folding trigger deploys properly from the bottom of the frame and functions as intended.
Cane Construction: The revolver nests into an orange-toned reed shaft with a brass socket at the tip. This setup gives the assembly the discreet appearance of a walking cane or baton. The use of natural reed and horn components is consistent with German and Austrian curio arms from the period.
Type of Finish: Blued cylinder and frame; natural reed and aged brass
Finish Originality: Original
Chamber Condition: All six chambers are clean and bright, showing minimal fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the chambers rate 9/10.
Overall Condition: The revolver mechanism retains 85% with scattered age wear. The stag handle, though cracked and repaired, remains solid. The reed shaft and brass socket show age-consistent wear but no major losses. The action fits tightly in the socket, and the trigger functions properly. Overall, this cane gun is in Very Good to Good condition for a C&R-eligible piece.
Mechanics: The action is mechanically functional. The hammer cocks and drops, the cylinder rotates and locks, and the folding trigger is responsive. This firearm has not been test-fired and should be examined by a qualified gunsmith before any potential use.
Our Assessment: This rare German-made concealed cane gun is a fascinating artifact of late 19th-century firearm ingenuity. Unlike English cane guns—typically single-shot and externally smooth—this German example conceals a 6-shot .22 rimfire revolver inside an orange reed shaft, with folding trigger, stag horn grip, and brass socket. The Crown/V and Crown/CP proofs on the cylinder place it squarely within the pre-World War I German commercial proof system, most likely manufactured in Suhl or Zella-Mehlis.
Cane guns like this were once carried for discreet self-defense or novelty appeal by gentlemen of the era. Today, they stand out as prized curiosa for collectors of concealed weapons, Continental revolvers, and mechanically clever antiques. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
