A RARE GIFFARD PATENT CO2 8MM RIFLE WITH ORIGINAL BOX

A RARE GIFFARD PATENT CO2 8MM RIFLE WITH ORIGINAL BOX, late 19th century, the 24 1/2" barrel with front bead sight and rear leaf sight inlaid in gold "STE STEPHANOISE D'ARMES - ST ETIENNE" and stamped 9410, cylindrical gas bottle under the barrel numbered and stamped with air balloon trademark, action with foliate engraving and another hot air balloon mark, walnut stock, bois durci butt plate with chequering, hot air balloon in relief and inscribed "PAUL GIFFA(RD I)NVENTEUR", 41 3/4" long, together with its original cardboard box bearing maker's labels (2) (Est. plus 21% premium inc. VAT) (Illustrated)