A Rare 17-Bore 1848 Pattern Irish Constabulary Percussion Pistol, Dated 1848. With plain barrel and action in one piece, the former stamped with Irish census number at the breech, C265 the latter inscribed 'Tower 1848' on one side and with crowned ‘VR', (all engraving rubbed) rounded butt stamped with Board of Ordnance ownership mark on one side, steel trigger guard and captive ramrod. 

Notes:

Designed by George Lovell and manufactured by Hollis Brothers, Birmingham. The only contract for this handgun was issued in 1847 for five hundred, for special issuance to the Irish Constabulary "...when serving in plain clothes on special duty." (British Military Firearms 1650-1850 Blackmore page 213) All of these bear the date "1848" and were also marked with Irish registration marks. 

Dimensions:

Bore: 16 Bore

Barrel Length: 4.5 Inches (11.43 cm)

Overall Length: 9.5 Inches (24.13 cm)