OK, I may sound a bit paranoid, but here are my questions about the proof marks:

-on the right barrel, there is a faint "P" to the left of the BP mark, and the hint of a diamond below the diamond 10 mark.

-I've never seen a BP gun with proof that spelled out "BLACK POWDER" Is this a modern convention? If so, as of when?

-the crown R stamp appears to be double/over stamped

-on the left barrel, there is the crossed swords marking after the bullet weight, but it isn't on the other barrel?

-finally, all of the marks appear far too clear and distinct for a 125 year old gun.

-CAN proof marks be removed and the gun resubmitted? Can they be destroyed outside of the UK and then sent back to "restore" the gun to proof?

Now I'm the first to admit I don't know a thing about proof marks, and am not trying to criticize this piece. I'd love to buy it! I'm asking for my own education and curiousity. It certainly appears to be designed for charges greater than a paltry 3.75 drams, but then again, it is on the light side for an 8-10 dram gun and such issues as the proper power/weight combination weren't definitavely settled in 1883. If that is the case, it only makes it all the more interesting in my book. What's everyone else's take on this one?

Best Regards,
Bob