Something different

[Books OToole]

At least I have never seen on like this.  It came with a S&W 1st model single-action (aka Baby Russian) with Baltimore Police markings.

[Books OToole]

Here is the backside.

Any help explaining how is works, what it is attached too, etc. would be appreciated.

Books

[River City John]

Attached to either pair of front suspender buttons?

[Capt Quirk]

I second the suspender buttons.

[Books OToole]

Attachment to suspender buttons is the first impression.  But the taps are 4 1/2 inches long and the button holes are 5 inches apart.
On the suspender button holster pictured in Packing Iron the tabs are only about an inch and a half long.

Books

[River City John]

Perhaps then specialty buttons sewn inside coat, or specially sewn to trowsers waistband in addition to suspender buttons?
Or spacing of suspender buttons was wider for their particular style of trousers?
Or, made to attach to a utility belt that would allow holster to be removed without having to remove belt.
Or a shoulder rig that allowed for adjustment of hang.
Interesting, though.

RCJ

[Mogorilla]

I saw something similar, but it had a third tab at the bottom that attached to a button at the waist.  The upper buttons attached to a set of leather straps making it a shoulder holster.   I liked the third button thinking as it kept the holster very secure (lighter weight leather) when drawing the pistol. 

[DeaconKC]

I don't know, it seems due to the wear that makes me think a shoulder rig of some sort. All you would need is a strap over the top for the shoulder strap itself then something to reach over to keep it level and attached.

[Coffinmaker]

Aw Cummon ...... It's simple.  That's a Funny lookin Brown holster for an S & W 1st Md. called a Floozie.  No visible means of support 

[Marshal Will Wingam]

My first thought was a shoulder rig due to the length of the straps. It is interesting.