New help identifying a revolver

[mnmiv]

My Dad was told it was from the Victorian era. Obviously, it's a pocket or ladies' pistol, but we can find ZERO information on it. I have attached pictures of the gun in its original holder. It appears to be nickel plated, has a fold down trigger, and appears to be chambered for .22 short. Any insight would be most appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[cleardiddion]

Looks like some sort of velodog revolver.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Velo-dog

 

[Jim K]

It is certainly not a Velo-Dog. A Velo-Dog revolver is one chambered for the Velo-Dog cartridge and that cylinder is much too short.

It is an inexpensive European vest pocket (or purse in this case) revolver, dating from c. 1880-c. 1914. Millions were made and sold in an era before European governments began to fear their people and effectively banned handguns except for the police and military (we all know how that worked out in Germany).

In the US today, that gun, because of its engraving and grips (real mother of pearl?) would likely bring around $300, maybe $400 with the gun purse.

Those purses were a common way for a woman to carry a small revolver, and bring nice prices today even without the gun.

Here is a pic of a gun purse I have and the S&W revolver that came with it.

Jim