The maker’s records confirm that this gun was manufactured in 1866. With browned damascus barrels each engraved with a band of stylized foliage at the breech end. Sunken concave rib with bead front sight, signed “JOHN DICKSON & SON. 63 PRINCES STREET. EDINBURGH.” and engraved with a spray of scrollwork at the breech end. Action with permanently attached forearm and prominent serpentine fences, the underlever with pierced finial. Non-Rebounding side locks each signed “JOHN DICKSON & SON” and with hare’s ear hammer. Furniture comprising trigger guard and butt plate. Best quality border and scroll engraving throughout. The underside of the barrels and water table with London black powder and nitro reproof marks, the water table also marked “J.D&S” and “CHARLES W. LANCASTER’S PATENT/311” (possibly an adaption of Lancaster’s extractor patent of April 5, 1865, Patent No. 969, use number 311). Well figured 14 1/4 inch straight hand stock with checkered grip and forearm, the latter with dark horn tip and key fastener. The underside of the butt with blank silver oval initial escutcheon. Proved at 18.8mm/18.8mm, measuring 18.8mm/18.8mm, 65mm (2 1/2 inch) chambers, minimum wall thickness 0.024/0.023+. Weight 6 lbs. 12 oz.

In fine condition. The barrels retaining nearly all of the rebrowned finish, rib signature clear. Action and locks with slight traces of original casehardened finish and sharp engraving. Trigger guard cleaned bright, engraving softened, some patches of discoloration to tang from handling. Butt plate with mottled grey patina. Stock with attractive figure, some minor scattered storage and handling blemishes throughout and a small repair on the forend. Mechanically excellent. A rare example of an early center fire hammergun by a premium brand maker. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection.