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Fine Allen & Thurber six-shot percussion pepperbox, no. 3/446, approximately .31 caliber, manufactured at Worcester, Massachusetts. The revolver features a 3 ¼ in. fluted barrel cluster, finely engraved frame and nipple shield, walnut grips, and Allen’s distinctive bar-hammer mechanism. The hammer is marked “ALLEN’S PATENT 1845,” identifying Ethan Allen’s improved patented action.
Allen & Thurber operated under this name in Worcester from approximately 1847 until 1854, providing a relatively narrow manufacturing period for the present arm. Ethan Allen’s repeating pepperboxes were among the most successful American multi-shot handguns of the years immediately preceding the widespread adoption of the conventional revolver. Compact and capable of firing successive shots through Allen’s distinctive double-action mechanism, pepperboxes became popular American defensive arms during the mid-19th century.
The pepperbox is housed in a compartmented wooden case with an appealing group of accessories, including bullet mold, loading rod, oval leather-covered plunger-type powder flask, exceedingly rare de-capper, and a quantity of lead balls. The de-capper bears a July 7, 1868 patent date and therefore represents a later addition to the accessories accompanying this earlier pepperbox.
The combination of exceptional surviving finish, crisp engraving, fine walnut grips, fitted case, extensive accessories, and identifiable 1845 patent marking makes this a particularly handsome example of the classic American percussion pepperbox.
Item Date: Circa 1847–1854
Measurement: 3.25 inch six cluster-barrel cluster
Material: Blued steel barrel cluster; engraved steel frame; case-colored hammer; walnut grips; fitted wooden case with accessories
Item Condition: Wonderful condition, retaining a remarkable degree of rich original blue finish to the six-barrel cluster and bright case coloring to the hammer. The engraved frame remains crisp and well defined. Walnut grips retain a particularly attractive original surface. Trigger guard and grip strap exhibit weaker finish with expected age-related wear. Fitted case shows trivial expected wear consistent with age and use. Lock is presently without a fitting key.
Price: $9,500
SKU 308-737
For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.