By: Dennis Beyer
POCKET GUN
While the focus of my Collection, of nearly 60 years, has been Police Badges, I also have a couple Old Time Firearms in my museum. In this article I will give you a quick peek at them. I am sure you will conclude, "They are not worth very much !"
As Collectors we all recognize "Value" having a few different definitions. Cash Value is easy to comprehend, and used the most when examining the items that we hold near and dear. Sentimental Value is a totally different story, and that is the case with these firearms.
This first gun is a "British Bull Dog" - 38 cal. The name may ring a bell. It might sound a little famous and perhaps you might think it has some cash value.
Unfortunately the gun in my collection is of Sentimental Value. It is American made, by a company that copied Webley's design. The above 5 shot 38 caliber weapon was made by Harrington & Richardson.
At one point in time this gun belonged to John O'Rouke. He is believed to have been the Chief of Police in Orange, NJ. This has not been established other then by word of mouth. His gun has been handed down over the years. It was last given to me by my Uncle. That's enough to give it "Sentimental Value" for me.
The next gun pictured on
The gun was also made by "H & R Arms, Worcester, Mass."
It is a 5 shot revolver using "Primiere 32 S&W Ctg." This info is stamped into the side of the barrel.
Considering the age, on both of these keepsake guns, the Nickle appearance is pretty good. That means "not excellent." While I won't attempt to fire them, I do enjoy having them in my Collection of Law Enforcement Memorabilia. I look at them every day, and they do help bring back many "Valuable" memories.
