September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/5/2023
A Colt M1861 revolver with one of the finest "Slim Jim" California style holsters this cataloguer has seen. Consignor oral history is that this set was found together 60 years ago in a Portland safety deposit box, and, from the physical fit, they seem to be a match. A Civil War-era gun manufactured in the first half of 1863, serial 13808. Features a blued 7 - 1/2" barrel with New York address, German silver blade front sight, hammer notch rear, cylinder roll marked with standard naval engagement scene, case hardened frame, brass grip straps, and plain walnut 1-piece grips. Holster is a very fine California pattern of the type popularized during the mid-Gold Rush through the Civil War. Made of medium-weight russet saddle skirt leather with profuse fern frond patterns. Back exhibits a single riveted belt loop with a seldom-seen half-strap for retention. For similar examples, see pgs. 69-75 "Packing Iron: Gunleather of the Frontier West" by Richard C. Rattenbury. CONDITION: Very good. Mechanically strong and sound. Traces of factory blue mostly in recessed areas and light case colors present with balance of gun showing overall blue thinned to gray patina. Brass straps exhibit an even mellow gold color. Walnut grips have typical light age and handling dings. Bore is good and displays strong lands and grooves. Matching numbers observed on frame, barrel assembly, cylinder arbor, cylinder, and grip straps. Holster is near mint with only the slightest handling wear. Strap on top is still supple and displayable, allowing revolver to be removed if desired.
Caliber/Bore
.36 Percussion
Paperwork
Provenance, Information