Collectors and defensive firearms enthusiasts value objects that tell a story as much as they demonstrate craftsmanship. Historic pocket pistols occupy a unique space where provenance, rarity, and tactical relevance meet, and this example warrants close attention.

HENRY VERY RARE EARLY COUNTERFEIT DERRINGER PISTOL

Provenance and historical significance

This very rare early counterfeit Derringer pistol is notable for the included newspaper printed June 4, 1836, tied to an advertisement by Henry Deringer offering a $100 reward for information on counterfeiters. That reward was a substantial sum in its day, and authorities including Deringer expert Doug Eberhart have identified this paper as an extraordinary survivor—apparently the only known copy. The set pairs a period-made counterfeit pistol that closely resembles contemporary originals with documentary evidence, elevating its value for museums, serious collectors, and historians.

Tactical context and collector value

As a Derringer-category item from the Henry stable with model listed as Various, this pistol exemplifies early pocket-weapon geometry and concealability—traits that informed personal defense choices in the 19th century. While the piece is primarily a collector’s artifact rather than a service firearm, its form factor illustrates why small single-shot or multi-barrel pocket pistols were favored for close-quarters self-defense. The detailed description emphasizes its authenticity as an early counterfeit that mirrors period construction and styling, making it a teaching piece for provenance study and tactical evolution.

View product details and pricing — the listed price for this rare set is $3995.99, reflecting the rarity of the newspaper, the story tied to Deringer’s reward, and the unique nature of the pistol itself.

Acquisition and preservation advice

For buyers, verify provenance documentation and handle the set conservatively: avoid invasive cleaning, store in controlled humidity, and consider museum-grade display mounts. Because the model is recorded as Various under the Henry brand, authentication by a qualified antique arms specialist is recommended before acquisition. This ensures the historical narrative—especially the link to the Washington Globe ad—is fully substantiated.

For collectors seeking a one-of-a-kind historical artifact that bridges tactical history and curatorial value, check current availability here: Shop this product.

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