28 Bore (.55 caliber). 8.675" two stage octagon to round pinned barrels. NSN. Brass barrels, locks and furniture, walnut stocks. Single shot percussion altered brass barreled holster pistols made in a French form, likely 1st quarter of the 19th century and later altered to percussion with steel patent breeches. Both locks have been heavily polished, but the name PARR can barely be discerned on one lock. Upper left breech quadrants with "Tower Private Proofs". No other external markings. The pistols appear to have been made with belt hooks that are now missing. Brass button head steel ramrods are in place it the channels under the barrels. John Parr worked in Liverpool circa 1765-1803, with his James and later William joining him to form Parr & Son circa 1795. The firm was listed as "Merchants and African Gun Manufacturers" and remained in business through about 1820. These pistols were likely produced circa 1800-1820 in flint and later altered to percussion. Their French styling and apparent belt hooks suggest they may have been made for a ship's captain or merchant engaged in the African trade during that period. A nice set of pistols whose only real detraction is an overly aggressive cleaning.