The large "J" holds some secrets as to the mechanic who thru this example displayed his talent. I think the 32 might just be the bore and the construction of the sporting arm was initiated prior to 1868. With the 17.5mm diameter stamps, I'd first say it passed proof in Paris post 1868 and that either the "Crown" over the Cross/shield or the "Crown" over "GR" to note that the longarm experienced proof. But it is possible that the diameter stamps were applied during the 1923 black powder proof and I don't see a foreign tube stamp. Neat that in 1923 the Austrian facility would still proof pinfire. I guess they were still plentiful. So if the "32" notes the bore diameter and it was began earlier than 1868, I wonder if Westley Richards had some experimental type of toplever design that they passed on to GR? Prior to 1868 the French used an odd plug gauge diameter stamp based on the French pound. Mr. Hallquist might be able to authenticate it, but I wonder if the encircled WR is a stamp of approval by the Westley Richards firm at a satellite APUN or permission use station. During this time, each Paris gunmaking concern had to self police and see that their wares experienced proof, which each concern having their own mark/stamp. All in all a neat puzzle. I forgot to note that the "Crown" over "GR" just may be a follow up to an earlier "Crown" over "A.R" for Albert Renette in 1812.
Kind Regards,
Raimey
rse
