These distinctive American revolving rifles were manufactured c. 1835 to 1850 by several gunmakers based on the designs of John and James Miller, and are commonly referred to as Billinghurst rifles as that was the most well known and prolific maker of them. The cylinder functions through manual rotation by hand. Nearly all of the Miller revolving rifles were made as pill-lock, and some were converted in the period to use percussion caps, like this example. The part octagon barrel is marked "C. MILLER" on top and has a post front sight and buckhorn notch rear sight. The lock, hammer and frame have flourishes of scroll pattern engraving. Ramrod mounted on the bottom of the barrel, walnut forend with classic pewter cap, and walnut buttstock with brass furniture. Provenance: The Charles Marx Collection

Fine, retains half of the faded original brown finish on the barrel and cylinder, with a mix of smooth gray and brown patina on the casehardened lock, hammer and frame, scattered light surface freckling, and distinct engraving. One replacement percussion nipple and a replacement blue finished rear ramrod guide. Wood is very good as revarnished, with some scattered light scratches, and defined edges. Mechanically fine.