Manufactured c. 1854-1856 by the Perry Patent Arm Co. of Newark, New Jersey, these interesting breech loading pistols are based on the designs of Alonzo D. Perry, with this particular example showing very attractive, exhibition grade engraving. A small number of breech loading carbines based on Perry's designs were purchased by the U.S. government in the mid-1850s. These pistols show many similarities to the C. Sharps single shot pistols, while also having a tip-up breech block that functions similarly to the Hall rifles and carbines. This particular pistol is in the second variation configuration, having the longer serpentine loading lever extending past the grip, the guide screw in front of the pivot screw on the frame, and the automatic primer system mounted within the grip frame. This example shows extensive, wonderfully executed floral scroll engraving, with near full coverage on the frame, top of the breech block, and back strap, with flourishes on the lever and butt. The top of the breech block is marked "A.D. PERRY/PATENTED" and "PERRY PATENT ARM Co/NEWARK N.J.", which is in a banner. The pistol appears to be unserialized, indicating that it was potentially made for presentation or exhibition. The grip frame includes an integral butt cap which is fitted with a screw plug for the primer system and a release latch to remove the brass primer system tube for loading. There is a brass blade front sight fitted on the barrel and the grips are smooth walnut with "H.M. STEWART/WYNNEWOOD PA" hand carved inside the right panel. Provenance: The H.M. Stewart Collection; The David Condon Collection; The Robert Howard Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Very good, retains traces of the original blue finish with the balance a mixture of grey and brown patina, some scattered patches of light pitting/spotting, and crisp engraving overall. The grips are also fine with some minor dings and a few light edge chips. Mechanically excellent. These pistols are rarely available on the collectors market, let alone examples showing exhibition quality engraving like this one!