May 28 & 29, 2020 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/28/2020
In the words of the renowned late Colt authority and collector James E. Serven, "The first arms of Samuel Colt, produced but a short time at Paterson New Jersey, are of exceptional interest to collectors. For the American collector the words "Paterson Colt" seem to have special charm. These were the first successful revolving-cylinder repeating pistols and, together with the unusual enthusiasm of their bold inventor, they have gained a memorable place in American history". Being offered is a rare Pocket Model No. 1 or "Baby" Paterson revolver, serial number 110. Manufactured by Colt in Paterson, New Jersey during 1837-1838 with a total production of approximately 500. Serial number 110 has been observed on the barrel, back of cylinder arbor, breech of primary cylinder, and spare cylinder. Octagon barrel measures 2 - 9/16" (commonly referred to as a 2 - 1/2" barrel) marked in script on top flat "PATENT ARMS M'G CO. PATERSON N.J.-COLTS PT." Barrel has two inlaid silver bands located at the breech, one forward of the lug, on bottom of barrel, and one at the muzzle, for a total of four barrel bands. German silver blade front sight with "V" notch on hammer for sighting. Chambered in .28 caliber percussion with a five shot cylinder. Cylinder has a roll die centaur scene with a four horse-head cartouche marked "COLT". Cylinder is rounded at the breech and has inlaid silver bands located two places. Frame has two silver bands located on recoil shield. Square, flat butt with one piece varnished walnut grips. Blued with silver plated iron frame. Backstrap has a German silver escutcheon with scalloped corners, hand engraved with initials "MH". Housed in the correct varnished walnut case with beveled lid, and burgundy velvet interior. Complete with original accessories including spare blued cylinder marked "110", blued single cavity bullet mold with turned walnut handles, copper and brass powder/ball flask marked "91"on each half with address "-PATENT ARMS M'G CO. PATERSON N.J.-COLTS PT.-". Capper with Rampant Colt motif marked "74" on inside of lid and base, blued combination tool, and cleaning rod with turned walnut handle. CONDITION: Fine overall with approximately 50-60% thinning blue on the barrel and cylinder. Approximately 25% original silver on frame. Balance of revolver is a grey/brown patina with scattered light freckling. Grips are excellent showing light wear with reconditioned surface. Nearly all the cylinder scene is visible. Action functions properly, being tight and crisp. Bore is very fine with modest abrasion and strong rifling. Case is excellent with 80-90% original varnish showing moderate wear and scattered light scratches. Interior is faded yet sound and complete. Bullet mold is excellent with 40-50% original bright blue. Combination tool is excellent showing traces of original finish. Capper is excellent with pleasing mustard patina. Combination powder/ball flask is excellent plus, showing approximately 70% original finish. Overall a most desirable and rare cased set. -MKS-
Accessories
Case with accessories
Caliber/Bore
.28 Percussion
Model
No. 1 Pocket "Baby" Paterson
Paperwork
Past auction description