The Galleries
- Robert E. Petersen Collection
- Ancient Firearms
- The Road to American Liberty
- Seeds of Greatness
- The Prospering New Republic
- A Nation Asunder
- The American West
- Innovation, Oddities and Competition
- Theodore Roosevelt, Elegant Arms
- World War I and Firearms Innovation
- WWII, Korea, Vietnam and Beyond
- For the Fun of It
- Firearms Traditions for Today
- William B. Ruger Special Exhibits
- Freedom's Doorway
Rigby Great Coat Pistols
Founded in Dublin, Ireland in 1735, the gun making firm of Rigby continues to be one of the oldest continuing in business today. This finely cased example of gentleman's coat pistols was produced in their Dublin shop in the mid 1800's. The pistols feature full coverage engraving, an exquisite deep pattern Damascus style barrel finish, hand checkered stocks and a case with all of the appropriate accoutrements. Unique to this set is a hidden ball compartment found under the back-strap that holds 3 additional bullets. Once the ammunition supply was exhausted the owner could resort to using the spring loaded dagger that is fixed to the left side of the frame.