September 20, 2018 Colt Firearms Collection
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/20/2018
An extremely rare and highly desirable Colt Model No. 2 derringer with barrel of sterling metal. Factory ivory grips. There is only a handful of Colt Model No. 2 derringer stamped "A.M.Sterling." A letter from the Connecticut State Library to the dean of Colt derringer collectors, George S. Lewis, Jr., states that they received a letter from the Colt company with the following notation, dated Tue. August 27th, 1872: "1 Natnl. Der. Pistol made of Sterling Metal from Am. Sterling Co. To American Sterling Co., Naubuc (Conn), Aug. 15th." Due to the malleable nature of the sterling metal, gun No. 3847 has numerous dents on barrel and frame, but is still bright with perfect markings and sharp engraving. Hammer has traces of blue on spine. There is a minute stress crack on left side of frame, extending approximately 1/4" but does not detract in the least. Ivory grips fit well and show fine patina with tight age cracking on both panels. These American Sterling marked Colt deringers are the rarest and most desirable of all Colt No. 2 derringers. Please refer to the article on "Colt Derringers" written by Mr. Lewis to the American Society of Arms Collectors, which is available online.
CORRECTION: Caliber is .41 and barrel length is 2".