Cased French Lady’s Miniature Pinfire Revolver, ca. 1880

Description

Newly acquired from a Parisian estate after 3 generations of ownership, this cased set has been apparently untouched since the 19^th C. Contained in its original 5 3/4″ x 3″ x 1 1/8″ thick red leather case, the brass slide catch marked “T. D. PARIS”, this miniature pistol features a 2″ round barrel in 5mm caliber stamped with a crowned “V”, 6-shot cylinder, folding trigger, and ebony grips. The frame and cylinder are engraved with acanthus design. Cylinder stamped with Liege proofs, a crowned “W”, and the number “2”. The number “2” is also stamped on the loading gate. The case is lined with dark blue velvet and the lid with blue satin. There is a small compartment with the revolver containing 7 original pinfire cartridges (The lead heavily oxidized and some bullets have separated). There is a separate compartment lined with dark blue leather to hold a lady’s accessories. The case cover features a small vacant oval escutcheon. Overall length of revolver is 4 7/8″. Revolver is in excellent working condition; the case shows typical wear from age and use.