Though not confirmed as the maker, the July 1, 1862 edition of the Boston Directory shows a Joseph Tonks operating as a gunsmith. Raised brass bead sight with a concave barrel rib, marked "TONKS MAKER/ BOSTON MS." on top. Both locks are unmarked, with the right lock using flint, and the left set with a drum mounted nipple and percussion hammer. Originally a double trigger design, both locks now go simultaneously on one trigger. Smooth straight grip stock, with light engraving on the trigger guard finial, "255" stamped near the right lock, (possibly U.S. Cartridge Company collection?), smooth buttplate and a 14 inch length of pull.

Fine. The barrel and locks show a crisp brown patina, with pitting on the barrel, and the trigger guard finial is turning gray. Stock is very fine, with some cracks forming near the buttplate, pressure dents concentrated around the left lock, and scattered handling marks overall. Mechanically fine. Writer cannot recall another one of these!