1147

Charles Lancaster Four Barreled Pistol with History

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,500.00 USD Estimated At:3,750.00 - 5,500.00 USD
Charles Lancaster Four Barreled Pistol with History
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Estimate: $3750 - 5500
A product of the mid 1800s, Charles Lancaster's multi-barreled pistols operated on the same grouped barrel principle as the more common smaller double action pepperbox pistols, but were available in massive calibers. Though never a standard issue weapon with the British colonial forces, many officers assigned to Africa and India chose Lancasters over the standard issue revolvers due to their superior rate of fire and large caliber. An estimated 712 of all models of this four barreled pistol were manufactured. The top of the barrel cluster is marked "CHARLES LANCASTER, PATENT BOND ST. LONDON". Both sides of the barrel cluster are stamped with six proofs near the breech with "476 CF" stamped on the left side. Additional British proofs are stamped on the sides of the frame. The workshop number "47" is stamped on the underside of the frame and barrel cluster near the hinge with the serial number engraved on the trigger guard. The breech face is stamped "PATENT CHARLES LANCASTER" in a circle. Fitted with checkered bird head grips and a lanyard ring on the butt. According to the consignor's research, this pistol serial number 7659 was sold to Royal Navy Captain A. Moore in April 1885. Arthur William Moore joined the Royal Navy in 1860 and was the commander of HMS Orion during the Egyptian War of 1882 and was present at the occupation of Ismailia and Battle of Tel el Kebir. He became Rear Admiral in 1899 and Commander in Chief, Cape of Good Hope and West Coast of Africa Station from 1902-04. He retired in 1912.
BBL: 6 1/4 inch fluted
Stock:
Gauge: 476 CF
Finish: blue
Grips: checkered walnut
Serial Number: 7659
Condition: Very fine. The pistol retains 60% plus original blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. There is some very scattered very minor pitting. The grips are fine with a small chip missing near the bottom, some minor handling marks and some wear in the checkering. Mechanically excellent.