Gem Circa 1888 ?????

Could this rifle really be this old? I was told that it was made in 1888 but I cannot find any information on the rifle itself. If anybody could verify this date, it would be much appreciated. The rifle is .25 calibre with a smooth bore barrel. It has the number 24 stamped twice on it – once on the trigger guard and once on the breech. Also, any further information about this Gem would be most welcome. Thanks in anticipation. Old Bull