(A) CASED MATCHED PAIR OF BITTERLICH NASHVILLE TENNESSEE DERRINGERS.

This is a fine pair of Southern Deringers made by Franz J. Bitterlich. Bitterlich was in business in the 1850s through the burning of his factory in 1862 so these guns date just prior to or in the early part of the Civil War. This is an elegant well made true pair with plain German silver mounts and simplistic engraved borders. Guns are numbered “1” & “2”. Guns are marked both on locks and barrels “FR J. BITTERLICH/NASHVILLE.TENN”. This particular address is thought to be the earliest antebellum address for this maker. Guns have a gold band between breech and barrel. Accompanying case is a burled mahogany box typical of the mid 19th century; the lining and partitions appear to be of more recent manufacture. Casing has a silver plated flask, caps, some lead disks, scissor mold with worm, rammer and nipple wrench. CONDITION: Very good overall. Metal is gray overall with staining and pitting. Markings are very good and discernible. Guns retain about 80% of their original varnish with stocks exhibiting typical minor scratches and bruises. Mechanically fine, bores are pitted with barely discernible rifling. A very attractive pair of Tennessee derringers.

Name

Value

Accessories

Case, Accessories

Barrel Length

(BOTH) 2 - 1/2"

Caliber/Bore

(BOTH) .44 Rifled

FFL Status

Antique

Manufacturer

(BOTH) F.J. Bitterlich