For your consideration is a superb factory engraved British .34 caliber percussion pepperbox pistol, c.1850. This six-shot pistol is of the highest quality encountered from this unusual genre of firearm. The heavily fluted barrel cluster shows a clear British proof mark in each flute at the breech end. The muzzle portion displays simple engraving at each chamber. The barrels retain fine blue that is especially deep and rich in the flutes. The top of the bar hammer is nicely engraved. The case colored receiver retains a mottled uncleaned appearance that is most attractively engraved with scrolls on each side as is the back strap, butt, and trigger guard. The walnut grips are in excellent condition showing no chips, cracks or abuse and have a diamond shaped engraved escutcheon around both retaining screws. Mechanically excellent, this revolving pistol is fired with just simple pull of the trigger which revolves the barrel cluster, cocks the hammer, releases it at full cock, and fires the weapon. The barrels measure three inches and overall, the pistol measures eight inches from butt to muzzle making this not only a belt model easily carried in a pouch holster, but compact enough to fit in a coat pocket. For its time, this was a formidable weapon that was popular before the advent of the revolver popularized by Colt. This British example could have been used in England, Europe or exported to America for service in both urban areas as well as the western territories. The pepperbox pistols were known to be very popular with the California Gold Rush miners who found them reliable and powerful enough for personal protection on their claims as well as in the saloons and at the poker tables of town. Easily the quality of the best of the American made pepperboxes, this example is beautifully crafted and is as operational today as it was the day it left the hand-fitted factory in which it was made. Overall, this is a beautiful example in superb unmolested condition showing no cleaning, rust, pitting or abuse in any way. This firearm qualifies as an Antique, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check.