This superlative quality large gauge duck gun was a technical tour de force when new featuring James Purdey’s first pattern thumb hole underlever (British Patent No. 1104 of May 2, 1863), rebounding lock mechanisms and reinforced breech sections. With browned damascus two stage barrels with engraved band at the step in front of the reinforced breech section, concave rib with bead front sight, signed “W. & C. SCOTT & SON. PREMIER QUALITY. 10, GT. CASTLE ST. REGENT CIRCUS, LONDON”, with scroll engraved doll’s head extension, and engraved with running bands of stylised foliage at the breech ends. The barrel flats struck with Birmingham black powder proof marks, and the forward lump engraved with fine scrollwork, marked “U S A / NOV 1 – 1870 / PATENT” and with screwhead finely pierced with a flower. Casehardened heavily bolstered action with carved percussion fences, and rebounding bar locks each signed “W. & C. SCOTT & SON”. The thumb activated underlever is fitted through the trigger plate and the trigger guard is swelled and pierced to allow access to the lever. Well figured walnut pistol grip stock with checkered grip and forearm, the former with engraved grip cap and the latter with bolt fastener, and checkered dark horn butt plate. Very fine border and scroll engraving throughout.

This very rare hammergun retains 98% rebrowned finish to the barrels with some minor loss of finish around the muzzles. The rib signature is clear and crisp. The action, locks and trigger plate each retain 70% original casehardened finish, the trigger guard and grip cap retain traces of faded original casehardened finish. The engraving remains clear and crisp throughout. The stock has well defined checkering with age related storage and handling blemishes and bruises throughout, some deeper marks around the barrel bolt. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.