.22RF Short. 2.5” fluted four-barrel cluster. SN: 3365 . Blued four-barrel cluster, engraved silver-plated brass frame, color casehardened hammer, foliate pattern Gutta Percha grips. Left side of barrel marked along the lower edge “C. SHARPS & CO. PHILADA. PA.” Frame engraved with fine New York style scrolls and geometric lines that are typical of the work of LD Nimschke’s shop. The classic Sharps pattern multi-barrel pepperbox with a spur trigger, rotating firing pin, sliding barrels and hammer interlock to prevent the barrels from being moved unless the hammer is in the half-cock position. The guns were produced from the early circa 1859-1874. The pistol is accompanied by its incredibly scarce embossed floral motif Gutta Percha case with a burgundy baize interior lining and floral embossed burgundy velvet pillow in the lid. This pistol is pictured and discussed on page 215 of Eberhart & Wilson’s The Deringer in America Volume II - The Cartridge Period . Gutta Percha cases are most often associated with early Smith & Wesson Model 1 revolvers and are rarely encountered with them. They are extremely scarce for Sharps Pepperboxes, and this is a wonderful opportunity to acquire an extremely rare Sharps case with a lovely pepperbox as well. Provenance: Al and Carol Cali Collection. Pickup & Shipping: Free pickup in Sacramento. Shipping via FedEx 2Day air within the continental U.S. for $85 + 1.5% insurance (unless waived in writing). Combined lot shipping available. Very fine. Barrels with some of the bright blue intact, showing some moderate thinning, fading and high edge wear. Frame with much of the lightly tarnished silver plating intact, with a rose gold patina. Markings and engraving remain clear and crisp. Mechanically functional action. Bores very good, mostly bright and lightly oxidized with good rifling. Grips fine with some light wear but free of any breaks, chips or damage. Gutta Percha casing about fine with some light wear and scuffing on the exterior. Interior with some light to moderate wear and fading to the lining.