This novel revolving rifle was manufactured by John Wurfflein Jr. and Frederick Psotta during their brief partnership, with newspaper advertisements for their shop at 98 South Third Street in Philadelphia known as early as June of 1850. After 1857, Frederick Psotta reportedly relocated to California where he was employed by A.J. Plate in San Francisco. This is the only example like it we have had the opportunity to sell here at Rock Island Auction Company. Another identical example (possibly this exact gun although unconfirmed) is photographed in the article "The Wurffleins of Philadelphia: Artisans at the End of an Era" by Ronelle Willadsenon (page 20, American Society of Arms Collectors 1998 bulletin number 79). Flayderman's Guide (9th Edition, item 15-031) indicates the total quantity of these revolving rifles made is "unknown; likely less than 20" and also shows a photograph of what is possibly this exact gun offered. The centrally located lever operates the rotation of the cylinder and also cocks the internal hammer. After pulling the trigger between shots, a small button located on the right sideplate must be pressed in order to allow the cylinder to rotate again. The barrel and cylinder cover assembly are retained with two German silver wedges, and when the wedges are removed it is allowed to slide forward for removal, which then allows access for removal of the 8-shot percussion cylinder for loading. The barrel has a dovetailed German silver blade front sight, fixed notch rear sight, "J.WURFFLEIN & PSOTTA PHILADA" marked on top of the breech section of the barrel and on both of the frame sideplates. Flourishes of fine floral scroll engraving at the breech, top of the frame, and on the German silver fittings, with a bestial face on the patchbox plate. The walnut stock has a nicely shaped cheekpiece. Provenance: The Charles Marx Collection

Very good, exhibiting mostly smooth brown patina, with some faint traces of original case colors on the frame and sideplates, scattered patches of mild oxidation and some minor pitting, and crisp engraving. The German silver fittings exhibit an attractive bright appearance. Stock is also very good, with a non-structural crack visible at the upper right of the wrist, some scattered light scratches and dents, and defined edges. Small empty slot ahead of an empty threaded hole on top of the frame where a peep sight likely once resided. Mechanically fine. This John Wurfflein & Psotta, Philadelphia revolving rifle would make a fine addition to any advanced antique American firearms collection!