These deringers with a spur trigger, flat frame and flat-sided barrel assembly were likely favorites for concealment in a vest pocket. Made from about 1866 to 1878 by the American Arms Company of Boston, they featured a silver-plated brass frame and blued barrel assembly with two barrels, superposed, that were offered in paired calibers of .22, .32, or .41 in both barrels, or like this, with .22 and .32 barrels. Grip configuration could differ- bird’s head, or flat like this. Barrel length could be shorter in the larger caliber. Most, like this, were 3” long. The barrels could be rotated manually with the hammer at half-cock by depressing the small button just forward of the spur trigger. Total quantity for this configuration is estimated at 3,000, with overall production at maybe 5,000.

The barrel assembly is clearly marked on the top of the .32 barrel: “AMERICAN ARMS CO. BOSTON, MASS.” and above the .22 barrel, “WHEELER’S PAT. OCT. 31. 1865 - JUNE 19, 1866.” The brass front sight blades are in place on both. The butt strap is clearly marked with serial number “748,” putting it somewhat early in the production run. The pistol is very pleasing overall. The rosewood grips are very good, with tight fit, nice color and surface, and only minor handling marks. The brass frame shows no sign of any silver wash and has a pleasing, mellow, aged medium patina. Trigger and hammer show muted blue. The barrel assembly shows smooth metal with a faded blue on the flats with one side showing some gray areas forward, with some rubbing along the raised edges, and some gray in the recessed barrel channels and finger grooves. The mechanics and bores are fine. We note some initials and a last name (perhaps “Van”) crudely and lightly scratched in the bottom of the butt strap.  [sr][ph:m/L]

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