Description Imagine a time when a government body of Massachusetts would gift a member with a firearm. Here we have a magnificent pair of cased French percussion dueling pistols in .65 caliber. A gift to Representative Daniel J. Kiley of Massachusetts who served in the House of Representatives from the 8th Suffolk District from 1898 to 1903 these pistols identically serialized “582” and with barrels stamped “Boutet” referencing the famed Nicolas-Noel Boutet of Versailles who is known as one of the finest gunsmiths of the period, feature short octagon transitioning to round then flared 8″ micro grooved rifled barrels, diamond checkered and comfortably radiused walnut stocks with flared bottoms and adorned with silver accents. The lock plate reads “Manuf RE / Versaille” (Manufacture of Versailles). The case plaque reads “Rep. / Daniel J. Kiley / >from< / House of 1903 / Mass. Legislature". Inside the velvet lined case you will find typical tools and accoutrements including a tin of caps, powder measure, oiler, ram rod and ball starter. Antique and ships direct to buyer. Condition: Fine with what looks to be original finish. There is some light corrosion around the nipple and breach on both as they have been fired (if only these could talk). The wood shows scattered and light marks on both from handling. One has a small 3/16" crack on the left by the rear lock plate screwhead. The micro grooved rifling on both is crisp. One of the pistols will not stay at half or full cock. The other functions as expected. Barrel Length: 8" Serial: 582 Manufacturer: Manufacture of Versailles Year: Unknown Caliber: .65 Model: Percussion