This is a nice example of a cased engraved Sharps Patent Four-Shot Pepperbox Pistol that was manufactured by the English gun maker Tipping & Lawden. The Type 2A pistol has a blue barrel, silver frame and casehardened hammer, trigger and barrel release. The grips are Gutta Percha with relief floral designs. The frame features almost complete coverage of floral scroll engraving, the sides of the barrels have a wedge of the same engraving with an oval punch dot panel in the center (gripping panel) and the breech end also has the same floral scroll engraving. The top of the barrels are marked "R.S. GARDEN. 29 PICCADILLY LONDON" and the left side of the frame is marked "TIPPING & LAWDEN/SHARPS PATENT" in a circle surrounding the hammer screw. The serial number "834" is marked on the left side of the frame next to the trigger and the underside of the barrels at the muzzle are marked "484". The pistol comes in a English style case with a burl wood lid with inlaid brass shield and blue velvet lining. The inside of the lid has the original "Directions For Use" label and the case has five compartments, one is unlined and appears to be for ammunition.

Very fine. The barrels retain 85% plus original blue finish with some scattered minor flaking and corrosion. The frame retains 90% original silver plating with some edge and high point wear. There is an aged patina on the exposed brass. Overall the grips are good, the left panel is badly heat warped at the bottom, otherwise there are only light handling marks. The markings and engraving are clear. The action is fine. The case is good with a slightly warped lid, some minor dings and dents on the exterior, an area of torn lining from the pistol hammer and some minor contact wear.