Beautiful Bar Hammer Pepperbox Pistol by J.C. Reilly of London

NSN, .42 Caliber, 4" barrel cluster with very good, lightly freckled bores.  This is an 1840s-made pepperbox that retains much of the original color case-hardening on the barrels, with a bright gray patina on the balance.  A similar amount of color case-hardening can be seen on the engraved bar hammer, while the engraved trigger guars has bright original blue remaining.  The cylindrical frame has nearly all of the original bright nickel finish remaining with the maker and address on the left side, and "IMPROVED REVOLVING / PISTOL" on the right.  The bag-shaped walnut grips are in fine shape, with only minor handling marks and minor blemishes on either panel.  Joseph Charles Reilly operated at 316 High Holborn in London from 1837 – 1847, which dates the pistol to the 1840s.  This is a splendid example of a British pepperbox, and would make a wonderful addition to any collection.  Antique