This fine shotgun dates to circa 1874 and is built on the 1871 patent snap action and has the classic "crab joint" forend. The barrels have a bead front sight right at the muzzle, "PATENT" and "WESTLEY RICHARDS 170 NEW BOND ST LONDON." signed on the rib, and the serial number, Birmingham proofs, and London nitro proofs on the bottom. The frame has "PATENT/2577" on the watertable, "WESTLEY RICHARDS" on the breech face, and "WESTLEY RICHARDS/PATENT" on the top of the frame and lever. The locks are signed "WESTLEY RICHARDS" and have rebounding hammers. The squareback style trigger guard has the serial number on the tang. The frame, locks and furniture have fine English scroll engraving and engraved borders. The forearm has a horn tip, "PATENT" and a monogram on the latch, and checkering, and the buttstock has a checkered wrist, crest inscribed silver escutcheon behind the empty rear sling eye hole, checked bare wood butt, and engraved heel and toe plates. Reproved between 1954 and 1989. Barrel and stock measurements (R/L): both chambers proved and measured at 2 ½ inches; both bores 9 inches from the breech proved at .732 inches and measured at .731/.732 inches; choke constriction .000/.001 inches; minimum wall thickness .022/.025 inches; 1 11/16 inch drop at comb; 2 5/8 inch drop at heel; 14 1/4 inch length of pull; weight 6 lbs 15 oz. The leather takedown case has old South African labels on the exterior, Westley Richards trade label inside the lid, a small leather wallet with a beaded blade front sight and extra lock screw, and a nickel plated oiler. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection

Very good with 80% of the refinished brown and distinct twist patterns on the barrels, 75% plus original blue on the top lever and trigger guard bow, 75% original case colors on the locks, silver gray patina on the balance, crisp markings and engraving, and general minor wear. The reoiled wood is also very good and has crisp checkering, a few dents and scratches, a couple small chips at the edges, and minor overall wear. Mechanically excellent. The case is good with moderate age and storage related wear and recent straps and handle.