May 23rd 2015 Premier Firearms Sale
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/22/2015
Manufactured from 1861 to 1863 with quantities estimated at only a few hundred. Standard features include six shot, .38 caliber rimfire cylinder, 6" octagon barrel (standard length was 7-1/2" with several 6-1/2" and 8-1/2" versions noted) making this 5-15/16" either extremely rare or possibly period shortened, albeit the muzzle is radiused properly and the front sight is set in its proper position. Barrel markings are strong. It is the iron frame model of which all metal surfaces are a smooth gun metal patina. The two piece walnut grips have a flared square bottom and are excellent with only some dents to the bottom. It has a brass trigger guard. Operation is flawless. Strong bore with light frosting. The iron frame model is far rarer than the brass, constituting 25% of production. The Navy model was an infringement on the Rollin White patent and production was halted by Smith & Wesson. They are often considered secondary martial handguns, as 400 of them were sold to Kansas state militia in 1862. Production of the iron frame model is estimated at 200. Very scarce Civil War era revolver.