These pistols were manufactured around the 1830s. All four lock plates have fine scrollwork and burst engraving, sliding half-cock safeties, and "W & S ROOKE" near the center at the bottom. William & Samuel Rooke were active together from 1820 to 1837 in Birmingham. Samuel continued on until 1839, and then George Rooke took over the business until the 1850s. The barrels have post front sights and "London" in script on the concave ribs, and the undersides have pairs of cross scepter proofmarks. Swivel mounted ramrods are fitted below the barrels. The breeches have matching engraving and dual platinum bands, and the trigger guards and ramrod entry pipe finials are also engraved. The stocks have German silver wedge shields and thumb plates and checkered bag shaped grips. Smoothbore double barrel pistols found multiple uses in the 19th century. Some were carried by military officers and dragoons, others were used by hunters for defense against tigers in India, and they we also used to defend coaches from highway robberies.

See A.