You indicate that the serial number is 5 digits - #96XX. Up until 1877 Purdey serial numbers were 4 digits; they went on consecutively so that the first 5 digit numbers were the 10### series.

The # of your serial number would have to be a 1. By the time Purdey's were making guns in the 19### series, around 1907, they were almost all Beesley pattern hammerless with steel barrels. I would therefore advise caution as to the authenticity of the gun you describe.

Tim

Edit: I have just realised that you intended the # in front of the serial number to indicate 'Number', in the American fashion. Mia culpa! Please disregard my post.

Last edited by trw999; 12/29/14 08:06 PM.