December 6-8, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/6/2023
This incredibly attractive Colt Model 1849 Pocket revolver was manufactured in 1853 and features wonderful Gustave Young factory engraving. This very early example displays his foliate scroll covering the barrel lug, loading lever lug, frame, and hammer. Hammer is engraved on each side with a classic wolf head and an additional signature dog head is concealed within a scroll on the left side of the barrel lug. Revolver is fitted with a 6" octagonal barrel engraved with old English script "Saml Colt" with flourishes, as well as a rope band around the muzzle. Frame engraved on the left side with "COLTS / PATENT" in an arc. Cylinder is standard 5-shot .31 caliber percussion roll stamped with the stagecoach holdup scene. Grip straps are silver plated and engraved with scroll and ray flourishes. Fitted with a very rare set of mother of pearl grips with central scroll engraved medallions. Matching full or partial serial numbers observed throughout, with punch dot marks present above or below the serial numbers on the barrel lug, frame, and grip straps, indicating this revolver was slated for special finishing. Housed in an attractive hardwood presentation case with brass corner supports. Case includes a brass Colts Patent mold, correct eagle flask, sealed 250 count Eley cap tin, packet of cartridges, L-tool, extra nipples, and a spare mainspring. Also accompanying this lot are a pair of hand written notes, one listing this gun by serial number noting it was purchased by Dr. Jim Watson from a John S. Glock January 22, 1972 for $300. The second note records that "This Colt pistol was presented to Col. Horace Kellogg by the 123rd Ohio Regiment in the year 1865". Kellogg served with the 123rd Ohio where he was wounded and captured at Winchester on June 15, 1863. He was exchanged from Libby Prison later that summer, seeing further action through the rest of the war mustering out in 1865. PROVENANCE: From the personal and advanced collection of Dr. Jim Watson of Scottsdale, Arizona. CONDITION: A fine example. Significant traces of original blue are retained, especially on the cylinder and protected areas of the barrel, the balance cleaned to an even gray patina. Engraving remains strong and clean; the cylinder scene is likewise legible. Grips are fine. Bore displays strong, well-defined rifling with some mild black powder abrasion. Crisp mechanics. Case has some scattered bumps from storage and transit, but displays exceedingly well. A wonderful factory engraved Colt Pocket.
Item Dimensions: 13 x 7 x 3"
Accessories
Case, accessories
Caliber/Bore
.31 Percussion