This shotgun is marked "Caron a Paris arqr de S.M. L Empereur" in gold on the top of the barrel. The lock plate is also marked "Caron a Paris" near the base of the hammer in a banner. Caron was the gunmaker of Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte (President/Emperor Napoleon III). After two failed coups and years in exile, Napoleon returned to France and was elected as the first president of the Second French Republic. He served from 1848 to 1852 and seized power as Emperor and reigned until 1870. Based on this history, this shotgun was produced between 1852 and 1870. It has extensive floral vine engraving covering nearly all of the metal surfaces aside from the barrel which is engraved at the breech. The barrel has a bead/post front sight and a swivel stud with a ring. It is mounted with a straight wrist buttstock with checkering a the wrist, a swivel stud with ring on the bottom, and a flat steel buttplate with engraved upper tang. The shotgun has the equivalent of a modern 16 gauge improved cylinder choke at the muzzle, a chamber for approximately 2 3/8 inch 20 gauge pinfire shells, and a 13 5/8 inch length of pull. It comes in a hardwood takedown case with blue velvet lined interior. The lid is marked with a crown over a single gothic letter (appears to be a "V") on the outside and "CARON/ARQ. DE S.M. L'EMPEREUR/20 PASSAGE. DE LOPERA/A PARIS" on the interior. The case is fitted for the gun and has compartments for various accessories. Included in the case are eight tools and a few fiber wads.

Fair. The shotgun has a varied dark brown patina overall with nearly all of the gold inlay on the barrel. There is some light spotting and a few minor scratches. The stock is good as refinished with distinct checkering, various scrapes, and a few dings/chips. The action remains excellent. The markings are crisp, and the engraving designs are clear. The case and accessories are fine with mild storage type wear.