The included correspondence from David Maynard of James Purdey & Sons Ltd. confirms that this gun was completed in July of 1884 for a Mr. E.C. Guinness as number one of a pair of guns. It further confirms the shotgun as a 12 bore Purdey hammerless self opening non-ejector with 29 inch Whitworth Steel barrels. blued Whitworth steel through-lump barrels marked "J. PURDEY & SONS. AUDLEY HOUSE. SOUTH AUDLEY STREET LONDON. MADE OF SIR JOSEPH WHITWORTHS FLUID - PRESSED STEEL" on the smooth concave rib with a single bead sight, modern London nitro reproofs with an indistinguishable date on the flats, 2 1/2 inch chambers with a single extractor, cylinder/modified chokes (as noted in the letter), light engraving around the breech, and a silver inlaid "1" on the rib at the breech. Casehardened side lock action and lock plates with fine Purdey rose and scroll engraving, fancy relief carved foliate designs behind the fences, "J. PURDEY & SONS" maker's marks on both locks, and "PURDEY'S/PATENT" marking on the underside of the receiver. With dual triggers, engraved, long tang trigger guard, and automatic top mounted tang safety with gold inlaid "SAFE". Attractively figured, multi-point checkered splinter forearm with Anson push button release, engraved fittings, and straight grip stock with inset rose gold initial oval inscribed "PR" with light scroll engraving, and checkered bare butt. With leather bound takedown case with brass fittings and corner protectors containing, cleaning tools, snap caps, and oiler. The most notable E.C. Guinness of the time period is Edward Cecil Guinness. Guinness was of course the head of the largest brewery in the world at the time, richest man in Ireland, noted philanthropist, and sportsman. Bore and stock measurements (R/L): chambers reproved and measured at 2 1/2 inches; bores 9 inches from the breech reproved at .740 and measured at .741/.740; chokes measured .000/.020; minimum wall thickness .021/.021; drop at comb 1 1/2 inches; drop at heel 2 inches; length of pull 15 inches; cast-off; weight 6 lbs. 2 oz.

Very fine as professionally refurbished and restocked. The barrels have 95% of the blue finish remaining with some light edge wear, small surface marks, and traces of light pitting under the forearm. The markings are clear and legible. The receiver and locks have an overall smooth gray patina with distinct engraving and evidence of light cleaning. The replacement wood is also very fine with well defined, crisp checkering, small dings, and attractive figure. Mechanically excellent. Case is fair with scuffs and dings throughout the exterior, a replacement non-matching piece of leather where the original initials were, interior staining, patina on the fittings, and heavy wear on the handle and straps with cracking. A great opportunity to purchase a best quality gun with history to one of the most famous breweries in the world.