Edward Michael Reilly produced air guns and air canes in the mid-19th century, first with his father and then independently, and was "overdone with orders" after exhibiting at the Great Exhibition in 1851 and publishing "A Treatise on Air Guns, and Other Air Weapons" around 1850. The trade label inside the case has the Reilly & Co. 502 New Oxford Street, London address. The body of the cane is metal with knobs/thorns scattered across the surface, which were popular on wood canes of the period. The lower section of the cane is fitted with blade and notch sights and a key-like trigger mechanism (slightly worn original key included). The shaft of the cane has a black enamel finish with bright grip cap. The cleaning rod is fitted with the ferrule for the threaded muzzle of the cane for storing the rod within the cane when not in use. No visible maker's marks are present on the cane or accessories. Includes a hardwood case with trade label, pump with detachable handle, ball mold, cleaning rod with ferrule, key, turnscrew, and lead balls. NOTE: Due to state and local laws, this lot is not available for purchase or transfer to residents of Illinois, New Jersey, Rhode Island or Delaware. Provenance: The Malcolm B. Troup, Captain, US Army, Retired Collection

Very good, retains most of the period applied black enamel finish on the shaft of the cane and the grip showing mostly bright with a few scattered minor dings/dents. Mechanically untested. The case itself is fine with some mild handling/storage wear and the accessories are fine or better with generally mild wear and attractive antique patina.