OC - FINE- all original parts; over 30% original finish, sharp lettering, numerals and design on metal and wood; minor marks in wood.

PRF - PROFESSIONALLY REFINISHED OR RESTORED

WW - WOOD IS WORSE FOR THE PERCENT FINISH RATING GIVEN

Joseph F. Smythe is first recorded in Darlington, County Durham in the north of England in 1886 and this gun dates to the first few years of his business being established. With steel working replacement barrels signed “NEW BARRELS FITTED BY J. & W. TOLLEY, ST. MARY’S SQUARE, BIRMINGHAM & LONDON” and numbered “7985”. Action with carved percussion fences and cross-bolt, rebounding sidelocks each signed “J.F. SMYTHE”. Bouquet and scroll engraving. Figured semi-pistol grip stock with carved drop points, checkered grip and forearm, and checkered butt with heel and toe plates. 14 1/2" LOP. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection