Scarce Antique Lancaster Four Barreled Pistol Double Trigger "Howdah"

Serial #7660, .476 CF, 6 1/4" barrels with excellent, bright bores. This is a handsome and imposing pistol that has 70-75% of the original blue blending with a smooth plum-brown patina on the barrel cluster with some mild silvering at the muzzles. The large semi-circular German silver front sight blade has a few negligible nicks along the edge and the maker's marking, proofs, and caliber designation are all crisp and clear. The frame has a commensurate amount of the brilliant original nitre blue remaining, with scattered small nicks and surface scratches throughout although there is freckled gray along the gripstraps. The checkered walnut bird's head grips are in fine shape with some minor surface nicks and small blemishes as well as some general flattening of the points; mainly at the butt. Some slight gaps have opened up at the frame juncture on both sides. Lock-up is accomplished through a thumb-lever actuated stirrup along the top of the frame that engages two lugs on either side of the breech. The action functions flawlessly, as does the extractor plate. These rare and fascinating pistols were often purchased by officers going overseas as a back-up to supplement their standard sidearm, or by hunters for use as a "Howdah" pistol against dangerous game. This example is in fine-excellent condition and represents an exceptional opportunity for the collector to acquire a great collectible British handgun. Antique