September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/5/2023
An interesting example of a fairly scarce Civil War period naval revolver, with an anchor proof on the underside of the barrel flat, a known marking variation from the otherwise seen "USN" stamping on butt, when the Navy acquired them either from the Army or purchased them commercially. The Joslyn first gained traction in 1861 when they were submitted for testing at the Washington Navy Yard. They performed well enough that 100 were ordered by Commander Dahlgreen, and sent to the Potomac flotilla for distribution. This particular example is featured in U.S. Naval Handguns 1808-1911 by Frederick Winters, and is accompanied by a copy of a letter signed by Winters indicating that he purchased the pistol from Eric Vaule in 1978 at the OGCA gun show, calling it "a really fine Navy". Standard configuration with blade front sight, notch rear sight, 5-shot percussion cylinder, and 2-piece correctly checkered walnut grips, no inspector cartouches observed on grips. Naval Anchor stamped on underside of barrel, concealed by loading lever. Top flat of octagonal barrel with "B.F. JOSLYN / PATd MAY 4th 1858". Matching serial numbers observed on inside of grips, rear of cylinder marked "S9". CONDITION: Metal is largely a smooth dove grey mixed with some light chocolate patina, and traces of blue retained in protected areas. Grip checkering has softened, and has some chips and handling marks. Mechanically fine, bore has strong visible rifling and some mild frosting. A very pleasing example of a scarce revolver.
Caliber/Bore
.44 Percussion