Colt's Third Model derringer was the first design for a derringer pistol developed in-house by the company, with both their First and Second Models having been designs acquired from their takeover of the National Arms Co. The Third Model derringer was a total redesign which was done by a longtime Colt gunsmith, F. Alexander Thuer. Thuer is credited with three different patents during his time with Colt, the first for a metallic cartridge conversion system for percussion revolvers, the second for tools for reloading the cartridges for said conversion, and the third for these derringer pistols. The No. 3, Third Model, or "Thuer" derringer patent was granted on 12 July 1870, and the model would go on to become Colt's most popular derringer model by far, being produced until 1912. The derringers were extremely popular in both Britain and North American, probably due, in large part, to the greatly expanding industrialized urban centers on both continents. Such highly populated areas led to increases in crime, especially mugging, leading to a strong desire for many to carry a concealed form of protection such as these pistols. By the end of production in 1912, approximately 48,000 of these derringers were produced, though highly embellished pairs such as these remain scarce, especially in the extremely high condition these two show. Though their serial numbers are 24 digits apart, these two have, without a doubt, been paired since leaving the factory. This outstanding pair show the later production features such as the sloping hammer and the slightly more open grip profile. They both feature beautifully executed factory floral scroll engraving which encompasses approximately three-quarters of the surfaces and the small parts are nitre blued. They have the standard "-COLT-" marking in italics on top of the barrels. The serial numbers are marked on the left side of the grip frames and on the bottom of the barrels. The frames are both marked "41CAL" on the left and there are small British proofs on the bottom of the barrels. They are both fitted with blade front sights and smooth grips. Includes a oak presentation style case fitted for both guns lined with navy blue baize with a reproduction Colt London Agency label inside the lid, a cleaning rod, key, a Dr. Joseph A. Murphy collection tag, and two .41 RF cartridges.

See "A". Provenance: The John Woodward Collections; The Dr. Joseph A. Murphy Collections, The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection