These pistols both appear to have been manufactured by Richard P. Bruff in New York City in the early 1860s. Gun A is marked "R. P. Bruff/N.Y." and "CAST STEEL" on the barrel and has a dovetailed front sight. Gun B has no maker's markings and a fixed blade front sight, but both have matching German silver inlays on their stocks and banded breech plugs. The locks, breeches, and trigger guards are scroll engraved. Very similar Bruff pistols can be seen on page 99 of "The Deringer in America Volume One: The Percussion Period" on page 99.

Very good. The barrel has trace of original plumb brown finish in the protected areas, and the exposed metal surfaces mostly display gray and brown patina. The German silver has aged patina and some oil staining. The hammer spur has been repaired. The stock is good as revarnished and has dents on the toe, minor scratches, and partially smoothed checkering. The lock is mechanically fine, and the markings are clear.

See A. There are "16" markings in concealed areas.

Very good plus with mostly gray patina on the iron and aged patina on the German silver. The fine stock has crisp checkering and scattered light scratches. The lock is mechanically fine, and the engraving is clear.