The maker's records confirm that this pistol was sold in September 1882. Many British officers assigned to Africa and India chose Lancasters as their personal sidearms, but the total production of these pistols is estimated at just 712 further subdivided into smaller volumes in the various calibers. These powerful multi-shot pistols were also popular among the many explorers, hunters, and adventurers during the age of empire who found themselves in lands where the relatively weak common revolver cartridges of the day didn't provide the sort of stopping power necessary. The top flute of the barrel cluster is marked "CHARLES LANCASTER'S PATENT 151 NEW BOND STREET. LONDON.", has a blade front sight, and the left flute is marked "455 CF." There are British proofs on the barrels and frame. The breech face is stamped "PATENT CHARLES LANCASTER" in a circle. "7163" is inscribed on the trigger guard, it has oval bores, finely figured checkered grips, and a lanyard ring is on the heel. Includes a very lightly tooled period leather holster, matching cartridge pouch, and matching belt with S-shaped serpent clasp.