March 15-17, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/15/2022
Only an approximated 2000 of Eben T. Starr's patent 4-shot pepperbox pistols were produced by Merrill between 1864 and 1869. Lot consists of: (A) 4th Model with 2 - 3/4" tip up barrel cluster chambered in .32 RF, cone front sight, notch rear, gilt brass frame, push button trigger, and smooth 2-piece walnut grips. CONDITION: Very good. Barrels exhibit a dark chocolate patina. Frame retains traces of gilt with balance a pleasing dark mustard patina. Grips good with some minor impressions. Bores are dark with some pitting but retain strong rifling. Striker is missing and firing pin does not rotate when cocked. Matching serial or assembly number "6" observed on frame, barrel cluster, and grips. (B) 6th Model with similar configuration to Gun (A) only with checkered thin style grips. CONDITION: Fine. Blue on barrel cluster has largely turned to dark patina. Majority of gilt is retained with some areas thinned to a mustard patina. Handling marks present throughout. Grips are dark with a few impressions. Shootable bores with some pitting. Firing pin does not rotate. Matching "5F" number observed on frame, barrels, and grips. PROVENANCE: Ex. Rich Guckes. BAS
Barrel Length
(BOTH) 2 - 3/4"
Caliber/Bore
(BOTH) .32 RF
Serial Number
(A) 6 (B) 5F