GUN FALL 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2017
FINE CONFEDERATE "AS FOUND" LEMAT SECOND MODEL GRAPESHOT REVOLVER WITH UNIQUE EXPERIMENTAL CYLINDER LOCKING SYSTEM.LEMAT2ND MDL130942/18Cal. 42/18. This unique gun, noted on page 68 of Doug Adams The Confederate LeMat Revolver mentions the unique cylinder locking system not seen on any other LeMat. "Serial number 1309 has unique system in which the cylinder is secured by a locking pin that protrudes from the center of the floor of the frame, resting against the shoulder of the nipple cut-outs. Experts who have had the opportunity to examine these systems indicate that the final version is by far the most dependable and amenable to duplication. Even to the relatively uninitiated, cocking this mechanism has a much more secure feel than the reciprocating [pin] system". Otherwise this is a classic second model LeMat in serial range that no doubt made it to the Confederacy. The bbl address "Col. LeMat Bte s.g.d.g. Paris". is typical of 1862 as noted in Serpette. This is an interesting example showing transition to cog mechanism, note lack of cylinder bolt adjusting screw on frame, this is the earliest SN noted we are aware. This is a fine untouched gun with dark patina, crisp markings, orig finish and fine mechanics. PROVENANCE: Fred Edmunds Letter 2004; The Confederate and Civil War estate collection of Fred Donaldson. CONDITION: Very good to fine overall. Gun appears complete and original in every regard with matching SN's found on parts normally numbered. Fred Edmunds in his letter of authenticity notes that it is in the top 5-10% of all surviving examples. Gun is overall dark plum/brown patina with strong traces of thin blue finish on bbl, cylinder and frame with staining and light pitting. Markings are crisp. Grips are well fit with diamond edge wear and hand worn patina. Mechanically functional with crisp rifled bore. 52430-9 JS (15,000-18,000)