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LOT 321
Magnificent Cased Exhibition Quality Engraved and Silver Plated Pirlot Brothers Licensed Adams Model 1851 Double Action Percussion Revolver with Accessories - Serial no. 9851, 44 cal., 6 inch octagon bbl., silver finish, ebony grips. This revolver is based on Robert Adams’ August 22, 1851, patent. The Model 1851 was the first commercially successful double action revolver but lacked the ability to fire in single action. Like many Belgian firearms makers, the Pirllt Brothers of Liege
were fond of using the designs of gunsmiths from other nations. However, unlike many Belgian copiers, the Pirolt Brother arms were known for high quality. They were active from the 1830s into the 1870s. Some of their arms were likely imported into the U.S. and used during the Civil War. This revolver was manufactured on license through Deane, Adams & Deane
as confirmed by the “MANUFD BY PIRLOT BROTHERS LIEGE LICENSED
BY DEANE ADAMS & DEANE LONDON” marking across the top strap and barrel. The firm also manufactured some licensed copies of Colt’s revolvers
which is interesting given that Adams and Colt were intense rivals in the European market. The success of Adams’ designs ultimately forced Colt to close their London Armory just three years after it opened. The barrel marking indicates the revolver was manufactured between 1851 when the design was patented and 1856 when Adams left to start the London Armoury Company. The right side of the frame under the cylinder is marked “ADAMS S, PATENT No 9851.” Both of these markings
are hand engraved.