October 25, 2023 The Paul Friedrich Collection of Firearms & Gold Rush
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/25/2023
Manufactured 1852, right in the midst of the California Gold Rush. Classic configuration with 5" barrel, octagonal barrel, cylinder with a well-defined rollmarked scene, silver plated brass trigger guard and strap, and 1-piece walnut grip. Cylinder safety studs are worn, but present, scene is exceptionally nice for a '49. Matching serial numbers on barrel assembly, frame, trigger guard, and butt; wedge and rammer have partial matching 0968. Of particular interest on this example is the period engraving on the butt that reads "Geo. G. Evans / California 1853". This date is dead center in the midst of the California Gold Rush and it appears distinctly possible that George Evans was a miner who bought himself a revolver for protecting himself and his claim; the Colt 1849 pocket was the most widely produced percussion pistol with 340,000 produced. CONDITION: Overall very good, with significant bluing retained, approximately 60-70%, with areas of browning coming up through the blue and silvering, primarily to high edges. Frame and loader are essentially gunmetal grey and have only traces remaining. The vast majority of the silver plate remains, well in excess of 85%, with losses to edges and visible brass in the cuts of the engraving. Engraving is professionally done, probably by a jeweler in California. Mechanically fine, somewhat sluggish with congealed oil, with strong engraving and areas of heavy pitting in grooves. A very well conditioned Gold Rush Colt.
Caliber/Bore
.31 Percussion