This pepperbox has "COLLINS MAKER" on the back strap, English proofmarks between the chambers and scrollwork and border engraving on the various components. The gun is casehardened with some fire blued and blued small components. It is fitted with a pair of finely checkered grips and has a cap compartment in the butt with multiple lead balls. One chamber has a notch and some crowning at the muzzle. It comes in a hardwood case with a modern "Eugene Collins/18 De Corcy Square/DUBLIN" label with a Collins coat of arms, a very small powder flask, J. Goldmark's cap tin with caps, patches and wadding, key on a chain, several lead balls, screwdriver, nipple wrench, bore rod, and ball mold. The pepperbox is very similar to a pepperbox in the Museum Victoria's collection identified as manufactured circa 1845 by Collins of Birmingham. No record of Eugene Collin's was found in available Dublin directories. Included are the following notes: "MAY 17 1878 COTTON OPERATIVES RIOT IN PRESTON. RIOT ACT READ. MILITARY CALLED OUT June 7TH June 19th end of COTTON STRIKE." on a modern paper over an old paper with "MAY 1878 6 Barrels Preston riots." The rear side has "cleaned & Loaded April 2nd 1871" and has some partially unclear dates and mentions "5 Barrels" and "3 Barrels." "History of Preston in the County of Lancaster" (1883) states: "Lock out in the Cotton trade commenced throughout North and North east Lancashire. May 17 Cotton Operatives' Riot in Preston; Riot Act read by the Mayor; military called out; several policemen injured; breakage of factory windows etc."

Very fine. 90% of the rich, vivid case colors remain with some faded areas displaying brown and gray patina. The hammer retains strong fire blue, and the trigger and trigger guard have traces of original blue finish. The grips are very good with some minor chips at the edges and otherwise crisp checkering. The action needs work and is currently bound up. The markings and engraving patterns are clear throughout. The case is fine with mild storage wear including some tears and staining of the interior and label. The accessories are very good.