^Lot 250 Minneapolis Firearms Co 'Protector" .32 RF

SN: 1967. "Palm Squeezer" The Minneapolis Firearms Co. "The Protector" is a 7-shot .32 RF palm pistol, produced around 1891–1892 as a licensed version of the French Turbiaux squeezer. Designed for concealed carry, it fits in the palm, with the barrel protruding between fingers, and is fired by squeezing a lever. Reportedly, 3,000 of the distinctive Protector palm pistols were manufactured for the Minneapolis Fire Arms Co. circa 1891-1892 by James Duckworth of Springfield, Massachusetts, before the rights were purchased by Peter H. Finnegan who formed the Chicago Fire Arms Co. to market the pistols during the 1893 World's Columbian Exhibition in Chicago. Much less common than the larger Chicago pistol.Left side plate marked "The Protector", and "Minn. Firearms Co.", right plate "Patented March 6, 1883". 1 1/2' removable barrel, manual safety, nickel finish. Checkered hard rubber inserts in circular frame. The bore is very good/bright, the finish is about 98% with a couple of very minor dark spots of patina, the action is mechanically excellent. Matching serial numbers are found on the frame, cylinder and sideplate. Note* There is a Chicago Palm Pistol in this auction. Would make a nice set.
NRA Condition-Excellent. Antique Firearm.