Allen & Thurber Pepperbox Marked Worcester

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By Aspire Auctions

May 24, 2024 - Jun 1, 2024

Set Reminder 2024-05-24 03:00:00 2024-06-01 12:10:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Fine Arts, Antiques and Jewelry Online Auction https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/aspire-auctions/fine-arts-antiques-and-jewelry-online-auction-15962
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• Lot Description
  Samuel Colt was not the first to envision a rotating multichamber weapon. The concept was established in the 18th century. His design as well as loading techniques to prevent multiple chamber discharges, did prove to be the most practical design. Ethan Allen in 1836, came up with a rotating tube design, each tube it's own seperate barrel. The design eliminated the danger of the earlier single barrel and multi chamber attempts, from ignitition of unfired chambers by hot gases from discharge, in essence creating a bomb in the hands of the shooter. Allen's design would be popular until Colt's design reached the mass market. Pepperbox revolver production ceased by 1864. This example is based on the 1845 improvement patent, being the most reliable series. Pepperbox revolvers lacked sights; intended to be a close range defensive weapon. Many examples were used in the Civil War on both sides. This pistol design was the first repeating revolver to reach the gold strike of 1848. Colt's failed Patterson pistol, was not a threat to the Allen pepperbox. That advantage was short lived. The 1851 Colt spelled the end of the pepperbox. As with many early revolver designs, it faded away, only used by a few owners after the war. Small caliber metallic cartridge revolvers, which exploded into mass production by the 1870's, were less troublesome then the pepperbox. .32 caliber smoothbore five barrels, with fine engraving on both sides of the frame and down the back strap, bone grip panels; double action only. Serial number 542.

  Condition

  Good plus overall, mechanism functions.