Mid 19th Century American 3 Barrelled Derringer By William W Marston
This one definitely sits nicely in the interesting, unusual and rare box.
There only appears to have been between 3,000 and 3,300 of these ever made between 1864 and 1872 and were offered with a 3" or 4" barrel cluster (this one has 3" barrels).
It would have used the 0.32" Calibre rimfire cartridge and was loaded by swivelling a top mounted steel latch, after which the barrel cluster pivots down.
What makes it look even more unusual is the steel barrel selector switch on the right side of the body. This is more of an indicator than switch and would rotate each time the hammer is pulled back. Although common mechanical faults include issues with this mechanism, this one operates correctly (please see the video).
The mainspring is strong and the single only action is crisp.
William Marston was born in England in 1822 into a family that were already Gunmakers who then moved to America.
William became an American citizen and continued the family business from 1844 to his death in 1872 with several interesting patents to his name, including this one.
A rare and unusual piece in good condition.
Barrel cluster 7.5cm, Overall length 16cm.
This antique pistol is considered obsolete and non functioning, and is sold as a collectable ornamental item. This product is available for purchase in the UK without a license
