The makers have kindly confirmed that this rifle was completed as a “Best Double Rifle” for a dealer called J. Jameson and was entered in the serial number book on December 31, 1880. With blued barrels each engraved with a band of stylized foliage at the breech end and with raised file cut matted rib signed “JOHN RIGBY & CO. DUBLIN & LONDON” and fitted with ramp mounted bead front sight and rear sight of one standing and one folding leaf each with platinum inlaid center line and calibrated for “150” and “250” yards. Casehardened action with carved percussion fences and non-rebounding back action locks each with blued safety catch and signed “J. RIGBY & CO.”. Fine border and scroll engraving throughout. Well figured pistol grip stock with checkered grip and forearm. In brass cornered oak and leather case with accessories, the lid with printed John Rigby & Co. trade label.

Barrels retaining 95% blued finish with some rub at the muzzles and breech ends, engraving clear, bluing beginning to thin in places. Series of old dents mostly on rib towards breech ends. Action and locks retaining 85% original casehardened finish, thinning from handling around the rear of the locks, upper tang and trigger guard. Engraving crisp and clear throughout. Stock refinished, checkering sharp. Case with old working repair to leather hinge, label worn. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.