GUN FALL 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2017
BRASS FRAMED CONFEDERATE SPILLER & BURR REVOLVER. SPILLER & BURR NAVY 345 36 Cal. 36. This exact gun is pictured at least two references on Confederate guns and has unusual inscription under grips "JOHN H. FOWLER 1888" and "JHE / ELKTON / MD". This gun conforms to the standard configuration of other Spiller revolvers and has a 6-7/8″ oct bbl with unique crowning. Spiller & Burr revolvers were a Confederate brass-framed copy of Whitney's Navy Revolver. This gun shows probable Confederate Government acceptance with a large "CS" stamped on right side of frame. SN "345" appears on bbl, frame, trigger guard, and inside stocks. There is a cryptic "M" stamped on right side of grip frame. Cylinder is not SNd, is orig. Cylinder shows distinct twist lines where cylinders were made from twisted wrought iron unique to Georgia manufacture utilized by Spiller and Griswold. This is a pleasing example of a popular brass framed Confederate revolver with smooth surfaces and a crisp "CS" that would make a great addition to any Confederate collection. PROVENANCE: John H. Fowler, Elkton, MD, 1888; Ben Michel Collection; James D. Julia Auctions, October 2007; pictured in "Warman's Civil War Collectibles Identification and Price Guide", pg 339, 2010; pictured on pg 72 "The Whitney Revolver", D. W. Williams, 2012. CONDITION: Very good overall. Gun appears orig throughout other than apparent addition of un-serialized loading assembly. Metal shows old cleaning overall, brass now has a light mustard patina and iron is overall mottled plum/brown with staining and pitting. Replaced iron pin front sight. Grips are sound and solid with right grip having a 1" x 1/2" chip repaired and a much smaller chip opposite it. Mechanically functional with restored mainspring, pitted bore with discernible rifling. 51551-1 JS (20,000-30,000) prov checked of on contract, no prov found