Thanks for posting!
Do you have information as to how the gun remaining in such amazing condition for 150 yrs.?
Was it Nitro Proved at some point?
BTW: the barrels are English 2 Stripe
'Zipper' weld between straight ribband end welds
![[Linked Image from photos.smugmug.com]](https://photos.smugmug.com/Damascus/Sample-segments/i-4PBHnLG/0/44b63204/M/Wm%20Powell%20%26%20Son%202%20Iron%20enlarged-M.png)
According to Bro. Helsley, the barrels on Best grade were labeled in the Powell ledgers as "Best", and were usually 3 Iron. Other grades were simply "Damascus" (usually 2 Iron) or "Stub Damascus" (usually Laminated Steel).
Tiny superficial pits are not uncommon and were usually from surface inclusions lost during the finishing process. I tried to enhance your image and there are a few more nearby. I can't explain the loss of contrast in that area, other than possibly from light rusting that was successfully scrubbed away. Do you know if the barrels were ever rebrowned?
![[Linked Image from photos.smugmug.com]](https://photos.smugmug.com/Damascus/Defects/i-28szZxS/0/3f683e2a/M/Wm%20Powell%20%26%20Son%201877%202%20iron-M.jpg)