This pair was completed circa 1874 according to page 193 of Donald Dallas' "Purdey Gun & Rifle Makers: The Definitive History." The set has browned Damascus steel barrels featuring a single bead sight on the smooth concave solid rib which is signed with the Purdey address (very faint on gun "A") and a "1" or "2" respectively, period London black powder proof marks, and chambers measuring 2 1/2 inches with a single extractor. The barrels of each gun are fitted to a casehardened push forward underlever bar-in-wood action which displays handsome scroll engraving, "No. 1" or "No. 2" marked on the watertable, and "PURDEY" signed on the lockplates. Each gun features dual triggers as well as rebounding hammers. The guns are both fitted with a beautifully figured and multi-point checkered splinter forend with engraved fittings as well as a straight grip stock with tear drop carved flats, blank inscription oval, and a checkered bare butt. The included Norman R. Blank Collection note states "From J. D. Buchanan. Gift to me from Joyce Buchanan". Barrel and stock measurements (R/L): bore diameter nine inches from the breech .743/.742 inches; choke constriction .000/.000 inches; minimum wall thickness .025/.026 inches; 1 1/2 inch drop at comb; 2 inch drop at heel; 14 1/8 inch length of pull; weight 6 lbs. 10 oz.

As described in "A". Barrel and stock measurements (R/L): bore diameter nine inches from the breech .744/.743 inches; choke constriction .000/.000 inches; minimum wall thickness .024/.027 inches; 1 1/2 inch drop at comb; 1 13/16 inch drop at heel; 14 1/8 inch length of pull; weight 6 lbs. 13 oz. Provenance: J.D. Buchanan; The Norman R. Blank Collection