Manufactured in 1887. The barrels have been shortened as was common with guns used by shotgun messengers and express car agents in the late 19th century and early 20th century. During the heyday of the express company it was generally accepted that most agents were issued a revolver and shotgun; often a short barreled shotgun that was easier to wield in the tight spaces of a rail car or on a moving stagecoach. A bead front sight is fitted on a solid rib marked with the Ithaca address and "DAMASCUS STEEL." The checkered pistol grip stock has a hard rubber grip cap and Ithaca duck emblem hard rubber buttplate. Matching serial numbers on the water table, barrels, and forearm. Water table is stamped with Baker's patent, "PAT'D MAY 25 1880, JUNE 1, 1880," and "D" suffix in serial number for Grade D. The barrels have 2 3/4 inch chambers and chokes measure at cylinder. Length of pull: 13 7/8 inches; drop at comb 1 9/16 inches: drop at heel 2 3/4 inches. Provenance: The Doug Ellison Collection

Very good with non-factory shortened barrels. The as found appearance consists of smooth dark brown patina on the metal with strong visible Damascus pattern and traces of original case colors on the receiver and wood with great character, especially on the forearm (missing triangular piece at tip) with hand worn checkering from a life time of use. Mechanically excellent.