This pistol was manufactured circa 1860 and employs an interesting percussion "harmonica" style four shot "magazine" or breechblock. The Colleye system has a refined appearance compared to similar designs such as the Jarre harmonica pistols and was decades ahead of its time. These designs could be argued to be a forerunner of modern magazine fed semi-automatic pistols. Colt's revolvers had already allowed multiple rapid shots, but firearms designers were forced to fine ways around his patents if they wanted to produce multi-shot handguns of their own. The "magazine" is loaded from the bottom and feeds upwards as each chamber is fired. In order to allow the shooter to aim, a front sight post is mounted on the upper right barrel flat of the pattern welded (Damascus) barrel. When the pistol is held canted this post lines up between the breechblock and frame. The breechblock and action have floral scroll engraving. The top of the block also has a Liege proofmark. Other small stamps are on the left barrel flat at the breech and on the rear strap. It is fitted with a pair of bag shaped, checkered walnut grips. A similar Colleye pistol with different engraving designs is pictured on page 247 of Firearms Curiosa by Winant.