I bought this rifle last week from an old gentleman who shot it regularly

Very plain, .450 - 3 1/4", 28" round barrel, right hand bolted lock, 7 lbs 2 oz

Usual Henry rifling - could do with a scrub!

I telephoned John Dickson (who have the A-H records) and was told it was sold in October 1894 to the Duke of Westminster

It was one of 3, identical with consecutive serial numbers, probably bought for his staff??

He was a most interesting man, the First Duke with racing and country pursuits as his main interests, shooting in his estates in Cheshire and stalking in his relative's estates in Scotland

After eight children from his first marriage he married again, at the age of 57, a 24 year old and had 4 more children with her!

At 74 years, his last, he stalked a stag, and shot 25 snipe!

As well as being the richest man in England from property deals in Mayfair.

Some guy!!

The current Duke is now the richest man in England

TH44