May 13-15, 2025 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/13/2025
This wonderful deluxe pistol was manufactured circa 1856. After taking over production from Smith & Wesson in 1855, the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. produced approximately 3,000 large frame Navy pistols over 13 months. This example is fitted with a full nickel plated 8" holster model barrel with 3-line "THE VOLCANIC / REPEATING ARMS CO. / PATENT NEW HAVEN CONN. FEB. 14, 1854" address. Small blade front sight and drift adjustable rear sight. The brass frame features deluxe style engraving comprised of flowing foliate scroll and floral motifs over a punch dot background with cross hatch panels. Engraving is of nicer, more elaborate composition and higher coverage than standard factory engraving of the area, for another similar example of this deluxe engraving see page 57 of "Volcanic Firearms" by Lewis and Rutter. Lever and hammer are finished in nickel. Grips are original 2-piece smooth ivory, each stamped inside with the matching serial number. Pistol is housed in a hardwood presentation case with partitioned dark purple crushed velvet lining. Case includes brass wiping rod, oiler, and a period ammunition tin with partial label reading "METALIC". According to a card found within the case, this lovely pistol was featured in a 1957 issue of the Gun Report. CONDITION: Near excellent for its age. Barrel retains approximately 90% of its plating with some flaking along the high edges and address, as well as dings on the loading gate. Frame retains the majority of its original plating wearing through to mellow brass, highlighting the engraving handsomely. Frame has a crack at the mainspring retaining screw, some hammer marks also present on the butt from the period of use. Lever and hammer retain nearly all of their plating with a few minor flakes. Lever screw appears to be a replacement. Grips show some shrinkage and brown staining towards the top, the balance exhibiting a pleasant rich mottled cream patina. Fine, bright bore with strong, well defined rifling and some light frosting. Fine mechanics. Case shows impressions from storage but displays very nicely. A very attractive and very rare deluxe, fully plated Volcanic worthy of an advanced Winchester collection.
Item Dimensions: 17 x 7 x 3"
Accessories
Case, Accessories
Caliber/Bore
.41 Rocket Ball
Manufacturer
Volcanic Repeating Arms