C. Sharps Arms Model 2A 1b, Blue & Silver-Plated Brass 3″ 4-Shot Rotating Firing Pin Pepperbox, MFD 1859-1862 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,604.01
LSB#: 180110JB01
Make: C. Sharps & Co.
Model: 2A Four Barreled Pepperbox Variation 1b
Serial Number: 13346
Year of Manufacture: 1859-1862
Caliber: .30 Short Rimfire
Action Type: Single Action 4 Barreled Breech Loading Pepperbox with Rotating Firing Pin in Hammer
Markings: The right side of the frame is marked “C. SHARPS & CO. / PHILADELPHIA PA” in a circle and the left is marked “C. SHARPS / PATENT 1859” also in circle. The butt of the grip frame is marked with the serial number as is the bottom of the barrels, visible when open. The sides of the frame have scrollwork engraving throughout.
Barrel Length: 3”
Sights / Optics: There are no sights, one can aim using the top “U” channel of the barrel set and frame as a sighting plane.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are original bone grips with raised Centurion head on left panel. Some details on the raised portion have been worn away, but the grips are free of major damage. Please see our photos. The grips are in about Fine-plus condition as antique.
Type of Finish: Blue barrels & silver plated brass frame.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are gray with shallow rifling. There is erosion throughout the bores.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 70% of its metal finish. The barrel set has significant wear on top and right sides with much of the finish left on the left side. There are scattered marks throughout the barrels. The frame retains a good majority of its silver plating with wear on the left side of the breech, at the front left under the barrels, isolated patches on the front, bottom and rear of the grip frame and to the right of the trigger. The screw slots vary from sharp to slightly marred. The markings are faded in the right circle at the top. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition as an antique.
Mechanics: The action appears to function properly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with an early-style T1 locking wooden case with two triangular compartments and felt lining with an unmarked brass name plaque on the top. Inside the case is a key for same and an ejection rod. The case is in overall Fine condition with scattered handling marks and light compressions and wear on corners and edges.
Our Assessment: This is a four barreled pepperbox made by C. Sharps & Co. between 1859 and 1862 (after 1862 it would have been marked “Sharps & Hankins”. The pistol is chambered in .30 Short Rimfire with a surprising amount of its finish remaining. The bone grips have a nice raised Centurion head decoration and the frame has beautiful scroll engraving throughout. The technical aspects are somewhat interesting as Sharps was always innovating and making changes to design during production. The hammer knurling is type 2, the firing pin spring (really a pawl spring) is type 3. The pistol itself is the 1b variation of model 2A. To find a Sharps pepperbox in this condition, with a presentation case in equally good condition is somewhat rare. This will make an excellent addition to any antique collection and is a must-have for any serious Sharps collector. Please see our photos and good luck!
