Manufactured c. 1870s. This exact example is pictured on page 596 of the "Blue Book of Airguns, Thirteenth Edition". The knob on the right of the breech rotates for loading from the top, and it uses a manual cocking hammer with a built-in pneumatic pump located beneath the barrel. "P. GIFFARD/BREVETE" marked on the upper tang. Circular brass collection tag marked "R.D. BEEMAN/PRIVATE/COLLECTION/627" hanging from the trigger guard. Provenance: The Dr. Robert D. Beeman Collection

Fine, retains 80% period refinished blue finish with smooth brown patina and a few small patches of light corrosion on the balance, and mostly bright remaining surfaces as lightly cleaned, with sharp engraving. The stock is very fine with a few light handling marks, distinct carving and checkering. The pump does not hold air.