These pistols are based on F.A. Thuer's patent from July 12, 1870. The model was manufactured c. 1872-1912. Colt called them their "New Patent Deringer Pistols" in early advertisements. The first of these two pistols is the second variation with a high hammer and has elaborate scroll engraving with beaded backgrounds and "W. H. Perry" neatly inscribed on the back strap. This may be William H. Perry (1832-1906) who was an influential businessman in Los Angeles who built himself up from almost nothing after arriving in 1853. He owned a furniture store and lumber yard and later had interests in multiple other businesses in L.A. The grips are numbered to the pistol. The case is in the shape of a brown leather bound book. The "spine" pulls out revealing a fitted drawer holding the two pistols and four cartridges.
Very fine with crisp engraving, 80% plus original nickel plating, flaking mostly on the barrel, 40% original niter blue on the trigger, 60% original case colors on the "high" hammer, and generally minor storage related wear. The grips are fine and have attractive natural grain, nice patina, and minor vertical age cracks. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine and has numerous surface scratches on the exterior and some mild wear on the lining.
The second pistol is a later variation with the sloping hammer and has scroll engraving with beaded backgrounds.
Very good with traces of original silver plating, strong niter blue on the hammer, crisp engraving, smooth gray and brown patina on the barrel, aged patina on the brass frame, and minor wear. The grips are also very good and have mild handling and storage wear. Mechanically fine.
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