This is a nice example of an engraved Sharps Patent Pepperbox pistol manufactured by the English gun maker Tipping & Lawden in the 1860s or 1870s. Tipping & Lawden were one of only two authorized European manufacturers of these pistols and produced approximately 4,000 of these Model 2 pistols. This example has a blue barrel, silver frame, and gutta percha grips 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). The left side of the frame is marked "TIPPING & LAWDEN/SHARPS PATENT" in a circle surrounding the hammer screw. The serial number is marked at the muzzle of the barrel group on the bottom, in the groove on the frame, firing pin (partial) and buttplate (partial). It also has some small English proofs. The pistol comes in a fitted hardwood case with a compartment with wooden sliding lid containing the key and additional compartments for the included oiler, screw driver, and bore rod.

Very fine. The pistol retains 85% of the original blue finish with some fading to a gray patina on the left side of the barrel group and 95% plus of the original silver plating with a lightly aged patina. The grips are very good with only minor handling wear but are slightly loose. The engraving designs and markings are crisp throughout, and the action is excellent. The case is fine with various small pressure marks and scratches on the exterior from a century and a half of storage, the plate around the lock is absent, and faded and stained interior. The accessories are very good. This is a great set built around one of the rarest variations of the Sharps Patent Pepperbox pistols