December 6-8, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/7/2023
Production of these .41 rimfire derringers began around 1870. This example features full silver plating with wonderful detailed foliate scroll engraving over punch dot backgrounds, approximately 60% coverage. Frame marked with an "E", indicating the extremely well executed engraving was done at the factory, likely from Helfrict's shop, with several other closely serialized factory engraved examples published in Wilson's "The Colt Engraving Book, Volume One". Standard 2 - 1/2" barrel stamped on top with italic "COLT" marking and fit with a half-moon front sight. Grips are 2-piece mother of pearl. PROVENANCE: Richard "Dick" Burdick collection. CONDITION: Fine. Barrel retains nearly all of its wonderfully toned silver plating. Frame retains significant traces of silver plating in protected areas thinning to mellow patinaed brass. The majority of nitre blue is retained on screws and trigger. Strong case colors visible on hammer. Grips are excellent. Especially fine, bright bore. Mechanically fine.