The 1849 Pocket Colt was a best seller for Colt with around 330,000 produced,some had silver plated trigger guards and backstraps, I am wondering how common was the silver plating in terms of total production. A google search has so far come up blank.
1849 Pocket Colt
- Thread starter Skinny 1950
- Start date
I think less than 10% came out with steel backstraps and guards. All the brass ones we see were silver plated. I don't know where to find the real #s tho. Some of the steel strapped guns were silvered too.
Thanks oldiron, I did not know that, nor have I ever seen one.
I looked in Flaydermanns and this is what he said.
Flaydermann’s comments regarding Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver
"The gripstraps of silver plated brass; a few of steel, blued or silver plated."
------------------------------
The only reference to U.S. Colts with iron back straps that I remember seeing was this.
In Swayze’s book on ’51 Colt Navies in the U.S. Martial section.
It says the U.S. Army purchased those with brass back straps and small rounded brass trigger guards.
U.S. property marking, Army purchased, M.M. inspector's final acceptance on the grip. (M.Moulton.)
The U.S. Navy purchased those with iron back straps and large round iron trigger guards.
No reference to how the iron back straps were finished.
David
I found this on the Internet.
http://www.ocyoung.com/Colts.htm
Eighth item down .
A VERY SCARCE COLT !!!!!
COLT 1849 POCKET MODEL, with IRON BACK STRAP & TRIGGER GUARD mfg'd 1859
The Pocket Model by Colt held somewhat of a production record, being produced from 1850 to 1873, non interrupted. During this period approximately 340,000 were manufactured. Within this there are many variations. One of the SCARCEST is New York City barrel address, with IRON back strap and trigger guard. It is theorized, that with the closing of the London operation, all parts in the Hartford warehouse were used. Therefore Iron back straps and trigger guards were assembled with the standard New York City barrel address, and shipped domestically!
There is still a large amount of Silver Plating remaining on the Trigger Guard, and upper and lower quadrants of the Back Strap. The percentage of Iron Back Strap '49 Pockets is infinitesimally small ! The barrel and cylinder have turned a dark blue with lighter original blue tones, mixed with a correct plum patina, and have strong and clear factory markings. The cylinder has a very good scene remaining:
Serial No. 15344X has some case color remaining , and ALL factory applied roll dies are clear and crisp. All Serial Numbers are matching, and screw heads are fine with clean slots. Speaking of crisp, this 4 inch barrel '49 pocket, still has an EXACT and PRECISE working action, with each cocking of the hammer. This is a very strong and pleasant example of a VERY scarce variation in '49 Pockets. PRICE $2,850
I looked in Flaydermanns and this is what he said.
Flaydermann’s comments regarding Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver
"The gripstraps of silver plated brass; a few of steel, blued or silver plated."
------------------------------
The only reference to U.S. Colts with iron back straps that I remember seeing was this.
In Swayze’s book on ’51 Colt Navies in the U.S. Martial section.
It says the U.S. Army purchased those with brass back straps and small rounded brass trigger guards.
U.S. property marking, Army purchased, M.M. inspector's final acceptance on the grip. (M.Moulton.)
The U.S. Navy purchased those with iron back straps and large round iron trigger guards.
No reference to how the iron back straps were finished.
David
I found this on the Internet.
http://www.ocyoung.com/Colts.htm
Eighth item down .
A VERY SCARCE COLT !!!!!
COLT 1849 POCKET MODEL, with IRON BACK STRAP & TRIGGER GUARD mfg'd 1859
The Pocket Model by Colt held somewhat of a production record, being produced from 1850 to 1873, non interrupted. During this period approximately 340,000 were manufactured. Within this there are many variations. One of the SCARCEST is New York City barrel address, with IRON back strap and trigger guard. It is theorized, that with the closing of the London operation, all parts in the Hartford warehouse were used. Therefore Iron back straps and trigger guards were assembled with the standard New York City barrel address, and shipped domestically!
There is still a large amount of Silver Plating remaining on the Trigger Guard, and upper and lower quadrants of the Back Strap. The percentage of Iron Back Strap '49 Pockets is infinitesimally small ! The barrel and cylinder have turned a dark blue with lighter original blue tones, mixed with a correct plum patina, and have strong and clear factory markings. The cylinder has a very good scene remaining:
Serial No. 15344X has some case color remaining , and ALL factory applied roll dies are clear and crisp. All Serial Numbers are matching, and screw heads are fine with clean slots. Speaking of crisp, this 4 inch barrel '49 pocket, still has an EXACT and PRECISE working action, with each cocking of the hammer. This is a very strong and pleasant example of a VERY scarce variation in '49 Pockets. PRICE $2,850
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I just got another 1849 Pocket and don't see any silver plating left on it,there are dark patches in protected areas but no traces of silver left. I posted a picture in the Antiques Photo sticky above.
If it was plated there should be traces left under the grips but this gun is working fine so I won't take it apart until I have to.
The gun was made in 1863 so I was wondering if the Civil War may have affected the finish on these guns even though this model was not adopted by the military.
If it was plated there should be traces left under the grips but this gun is working fine so I won't take it apart until I have to.
The gun was made in 1863 so I was wondering if the Civil War may have affected the finish on these guns even though this model was not adopted by the military.
Skinny 1950,
Don't be surprised that you don't see any silver plating remaining on this gun.
I suspect that the plating was very thin and many pistols do not show it.
These little Colts (and many other pistols) were very often private purchases and may well have been carried by a soldier during the CW.
The 1863 manufacture date may well suggest that?????
We will never know for sure.
David
Don't be surprised that you don't see any silver plating remaining on this gun.
I suspect that the plating was very thin and many pistols do not show it.
These little Colts (and many other pistols) were very often private purchases and may well have been carried by a soldier during the CW.
The 1863 manufacture date may well suggest that?????
We will never know for sure.
David
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As a point of interest, I found this on a U.S. dealer's web site....it has since sold to another dealer who currently has this piece for sale at $4,400.
See below.
A '51 Colt Navy that was purchased by the U.S. Navy, it has iron gripstrap and trigger guard.
The dealer's description.
Colt '51 Navy-Navy Revolver
36 caliber Colt '51 Navy-Navy Revolver, serial# 61763, with 7 1/2" octagonal barrel. Butt of backstrap is marked "U*S*N". Butt of right grip clearly marked "I/SCR" for the naval inspector. Left side of frame marked "US". Iron gripstrap and enlarged trigger guard typical of Navy contract. Nice light patina on metal with slight pin-prick pitting. Excellent markings. Partially visible cylinder scene. Walnut grips with moderate handling marks. Sound mechanics. To date this is the nicest Colt Navy-Navy I've had since most endured hard use well after the Civil War.
An excellent reference book for '51 Colt Navies.
College Hill Arsenal is currently offering the gun shown above for sale.
This is one of his photos with a very interesting description and writeup on these U.S. Navy purchased Model '51 Colts.
This is a VERY GOOD example of a US Navy inspected Colt M-1851 Navy revolver. The number of Colt’s .36 caliber M-1851 “Navy” revolvers purchased by the US Navy was rather limited. While Colt had vigorously lobbied the Navy to purchase his revolving pistols during the early 1850’s, he met with significant resistance. He did manage to secure an order for 100 revolvers in June of 1852 for the use of Commander Perry’s command on his voyage to Japan. However, the general belief of the Naval Ordnance Department was that pistols were only of use while boarding an enemy ship, and in those circumstances edged weapons such as sabers or axes were of more use to the typical seaman. In fact the chief of Naval Ordnance, Commodore Morris wrote to Secretary of the Navy James Dobbin on June 21, 1854, noting in part:
“It has not been considered advisable heretofore, to purchase Colts revolvers for general service……….Pistols can seldom be used with effect in the Navy, except when boarding vessels, with the view to their capture, which very rarely occurs. At such time, the contest soon becomes hand to hand when sword or boarding hatchets could be used by seamen, with equal, if not greater certainty and effect than pistols.”
In 1861 Admiral Dahlgren had his Bowie Knife bayonet accepted by the Navy probably for the reasons expressed above.
This attitude remained in place at the top echelon of the Naval hierarchy through the Civil War and into the post war years. In fact, the Navy adopted the Remington rolling block single shot pistol as their standard sidearm in 1865. Colt was not to be discouraged, and ever the consummate salesman, he did manage to sell the Navy 50 of his M-1851 revolvers in June of 1856 and an additional 50 revolvers in May of 1857. In September of that year, the Navy finally placed a large order for M-1851 revolvers. They purchased 2,000 (less the ones that had been previously ordered), which were delivered starting in November of 1857. These guns appear in the 55500 to 62000 serial number range. The first 615 were delivered for inspection at the Norfolk Naval Yard on November 9, 1857. The next batch of 667 were delivered to the Boston Naval Yard on December 6, and rest of the guns were delivered to the New York Navy Yard later that same month. The Navy placed a second order for an additional 600 M-1851’s in August of 1859. These guns were in the 89000 to 91000 serial number range, with half of the guns delivered to the New York Naval Yard and the other half delivered to the Boston Naval Yard.
By 1860, Colt M-1851 revolvers were listed in the small arms inventories of nearly 30 US Naval vessels, including the USS Caledonia, USS Colorado, USS Congress, USS Crusader, USS Cumberland, USS Decatur, USS Fennimore Cooper, USS Fulton, USS Independence, USS John Adams, USS Lancaster, USS Merrimack, USS Mississippi, USS Pawnee, USS Plymouth, USS Porpoise, USS Powhatan, USS Portsmouth, USS Roanoke, USS Sabine, USS Saranac, USS Saratoga, USS St. Mary’s, USS Susquehanna, USS Vincennes, USS Wabash, USS Water Witch & USS Westernport.
This Colt M-1851 Navy-Navy revolver is part of the original order for 2,000 guns and was delivered to the New York Navy Yard in December of 1857. The revolver has the matching serial number 61763 on all of the major parts, with the loading lever and the barrel wedge having the matching number 1763, omitting the first digit. Like all of the Colt M-1851’s delivered under this USN contract, the revolver has a London style iron backstrap and a large London style iron triggerguard. The lower front portion of the left side of the frame is marked in three lines: COLT’S / PATENT / U. S.. The octagon barrel is marked with the single line New York barrel address that reads: — ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY—. The bottom of the iron gripstrap is clearly marked: U * S * N and the bottom of the wooden grips are marked: I / S * C * R, indicating inspection by Commander Stephen C Rowan at the New York Naval Yard. The gun remains very crisp and sharp throughout, with good edges on the octagon barrel and crisp, clear markings in the metal and the wood. The pistol retains some minor traces of its original blued finish on the barrel, mostly in protected areas, which has blended with a smooth plum brown patina over the balance of the barrel. The frame retains traces of the original case hardened finish, which has faded to a medium gray brown with some lightly oxidized salt and pepper discoloration. The metal surfaces are mostly smooth, with scattered patches of light peppering and pinpricking over the entire gun. There are some areas of slightly heavier pinpricking and some light pitting on the barrel, forward of the cylinder and on the front portions of the frame. There is also a dime sized patch of light pitting on the right side of the barrel, near the muzzle. The cylinder retains about 60%+ of the roll engraved Mexican War naval battle scene. The cylinder retains all of its original cones (nipples), in good and serviceable condition. The loading lever retains some strong traces of its original case hardened finish in the protected areas, which has blended with a smooth plum brown patina, matching the gun well. The gun appears to retain all of its original screws, which are in very nice condition and show minimal slot wear. The pistol is mechanically excellent and functions very well. The gun indexes, times, and locks up exactly as it should. The bore of the pistol rates about VERY GOOD as well, and remains relatively bright with crisp rifling and light scattered pitting along its entire length. The one-piece, oil finished, black walnut grips are in VERY GOOD+ condition, and are free of any breaks, cracks or repairs. The grips do show some handling marks from use and a couple of minor dings and tiny surface chips.
Overall this is a really lovely, 100% complete and correct, all matching Colt M-1851 Navy-Navy. These are very scarce guns, with only 2,600 marked and naval accepted guns being procured. Considering that Colt produced over 215,000 of the M-1851 revolvers in Hartford, these USN marked M-1851 Navy revolvers represent only 1% of the total production. This gun has a wonderful look and has not been messed with in any way. It is in much better condition than most Navy purchased M-1851’s encountered, and it would be hard to imagine finding one with crisper and clearer inspector markings.
All of the Navy purchased revolvers saw use on board ships, and considering the harsh environment they were exposed to, this gun is in really great shape. A Colt Navy-Navy is a real coup for any serious collector of US marital percussion revolvers to acquire. This gun would be a great addition to any such collection or to a Civil War USN collection. This is simply a great gun that you will be very proud to own and to display.
http://www.collegehillarsenal.com/shop/product.php?printable=Y&productid=936
David
P.S.
The gun shown below Sn # 61308 sold on Oct 27 2011 at Little John's Auction Service in California for $7,000 plus buyers premium of $1,085.
Early Colt U.S. martial Navy-Navy Model 1851 percussion revolver originally in the Swayze collection and pictured in his book on ’51 Navies, page 86.
The Swayze book is shown above.
SOLD
7,000.00USDto joebusch+ (1,085.00) buyer's premium + taxes, fees, etc...
This item SOLD at 2011 Oct 27 @ 14:11UTC-7 : PDT/MST
http://www.icollector.com/Early-Col...r-originally-in-the-Swayze-collecti_i11291979
The same gun Sn #61308 sold at an earlier auction on March 13 2011 (7 months earlier) for $3,393.
Go figure?
http://www.auctionflex.com/showlot.ap?co=23431&weiid=5772278
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Although in no way as rare as the’ 51 Colt Navy-Navy revolvers this ’51 Navy-Army revolver was purchased by the U.S. Government in 1857 for the Army.
The markings on this martial revolver are very clear and it is all matching.
(The cylinder scene is very complete....quite difficult to find.)
The Navy-Armies also have the U.S. marking on the frame, but unlike the Navy-Navy revolvers that have the U.S.N. and inspector markings on the bottom of the grip strap there is an inspector’s final acceptance cartouche on the left grip of the Navy-Armies.
There is also a faint sub-inspector’s cartouche on the right grip. (Not shown.)
These packets of .36 cal cartridges are not that easy to find.
See below.
A '51 Colt Navy that was purchased by the U.S. Navy, it has iron gripstrap and trigger guard.
The dealer's description.
Colt '51 Navy-Navy Revolver
36 caliber Colt '51 Navy-Navy Revolver, serial# 61763, with 7 1/2" octagonal barrel. Butt of backstrap is marked "U*S*N". Butt of right grip clearly marked "I/SCR" for the naval inspector. Left side of frame marked "US". Iron gripstrap and enlarged trigger guard typical of Navy contract. Nice light patina on metal with slight pin-prick pitting. Excellent markings. Partially visible cylinder scene. Walnut grips with moderate handling marks. Sound mechanics. To date this is the nicest Colt Navy-Navy I've had since most endured hard use well after the Civil War.
An excellent reference book for '51 Colt Navies.
College Hill Arsenal is currently offering the gun shown above for sale.
This is one of his photos with a very interesting description and writeup on these U.S. Navy purchased Model '51 Colts.
This is a VERY GOOD example of a US Navy inspected Colt M-1851 Navy revolver. The number of Colt’s .36 caliber M-1851 “Navy” revolvers purchased by the US Navy was rather limited. While Colt had vigorously lobbied the Navy to purchase his revolving pistols during the early 1850’s, he met with significant resistance. He did manage to secure an order for 100 revolvers in June of 1852 for the use of Commander Perry’s command on his voyage to Japan. However, the general belief of the Naval Ordnance Department was that pistols were only of use while boarding an enemy ship, and in those circumstances edged weapons such as sabers or axes were of more use to the typical seaman. In fact the chief of Naval Ordnance, Commodore Morris wrote to Secretary of the Navy James Dobbin on June 21, 1854, noting in part:
“It has not been considered advisable heretofore, to purchase Colts revolvers for general service……….Pistols can seldom be used with effect in the Navy, except when boarding vessels, with the view to their capture, which very rarely occurs. At such time, the contest soon becomes hand to hand when sword or boarding hatchets could be used by seamen, with equal, if not greater certainty and effect than pistols.”
In 1861 Admiral Dahlgren had his Bowie Knife bayonet accepted by the Navy probably for the reasons expressed above.
This attitude remained in place at the top echelon of the Naval hierarchy through the Civil War and into the post war years. In fact, the Navy adopted the Remington rolling block single shot pistol as their standard sidearm in 1865. Colt was not to be discouraged, and ever the consummate salesman, he did manage to sell the Navy 50 of his M-1851 revolvers in June of 1856 and an additional 50 revolvers in May of 1857. In September of that year, the Navy finally placed a large order for M-1851 revolvers. They purchased 2,000 (less the ones that had been previously ordered), which were delivered starting in November of 1857. These guns appear in the 55500 to 62000 serial number range. The first 615 were delivered for inspection at the Norfolk Naval Yard on November 9, 1857. The next batch of 667 were delivered to the Boston Naval Yard on December 6, and rest of the guns were delivered to the New York Navy Yard later that same month. The Navy placed a second order for an additional 600 M-1851’s in August of 1859. These guns were in the 89000 to 91000 serial number range, with half of the guns delivered to the New York Naval Yard and the other half delivered to the Boston Naval Yard.
By 1860, Colt M-1851 revolvers were listed in the small arms inventories of nearly 30 US Naval vessels, including the USS Caledonia, USS Colorado, USS Congress, USS Crusader, USS Cumberland, USS Decatur, USS Fennimore Cooper, USS Fulton, USS Independence, USS John Adams, USS Lancaster, USS Merrimack, USS Mississippi, USS Pawnee, USS Plymouth, USS Porpoise, USS Powhatan, USS Portsmouth, USS Roanoke, USS Sabine, USS Saranac, USS Saratoga, USS St. Mary’s, USS Susquehanna, USS Vincennes, USS Wabash, USS Water Witch & USS Westernport.
This Colt M-1851 Navy-Navy revolver is part of the original order for 2,000 guns and was delivered to the New York Navy Yard in December of 1857. The revolver has the matching serial number 61763 on all of the major parts, with the loading lever and the barrel wedge having the matching number 1763, omitting the first digit. Like all of the Colt M-1851’s delivered under this USN contract, the revolver has a London style iron backstrap and a large London style iron triggerguard. The lower front portion of the left side of the frame is marked in three lines: COLT’S / PATENT / U. S.. The octagon barrel is marked with the single line New York barrel address that reads: — ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY—. The bottom of the iron gripstrap is clearly marked: U * S * N and the bottom of the wooden grips are marked: I / S * C * R, indicating inspection by Commander Stephen C Rowan at the New York Naval Yard. The gun remains very crisp and sharp throughout, with good edges on the octagon barrel and crisp, clear markings in the metal and the wood. The pistol retains some minor traces of its original blued finish on the barrel, mostly in protected areas, which has blended with a smooth plum brown patina over the balance of the barrel. The frame retains traces of the original case hardened finish, which has faded to a medium gray brown with some lightly oxidized salt and pepper discoloration. The metal surfaces are mostly smooth, with scattered patches of light peppering and pinpricking over the entire gun. There are some areas of slightly heavier pinpricking and some light pitting on the barrel, forward of the cylinder and on the front portions of the frame. There is also a dime sized patch of light pitting on the right side of the barrel, near the muzzle. The cylinder retains about 60%+ of the roll engraved Mexican War naval battle scene. The cylinder retains all of its original cones (nipples), in good and serviceable condition. The loading lever retains some strong traces of its original case hardened finish in the protected areas, which has blended with a smooth plum brown patina, matching the gun well. The gun appears to retain all of its original screws, which are in very nice condition and show minimal slot wear. The pistol is mechanically excellent and functions very well. The gun indexes, times, and locks up exactly as it should. The bore of the pistol rates about VERY GOOD as well, and remains relatively bright with crisp rifling and light scattered pitting along its entire length. The one-piece, oil finished, black walnut grips are in VERY GOOD+ condition, and are free of any breaks, cracks or repairs. The grips do show some handling marks from use and a couple of minor dings and tiny surface chips.
Overall this is a really lovely, 100% complete and correct, all matching Colt M-1851 Navy-Navy. These are very scarce guns, with only 2,600 marked and naval accepted guns being procured. Considering that Colt produced over 215,000 of the M-1851 revolvers in Hartford, these USN marked M-1851 Navy revolvers represent only 1% of the total production. This gun has a wonderful look and has not been messed with in any way. It is in much better condition than most Navy purchased M-1851’s encountered, and it would be hard to imagine finding one with crisper and clearer inspector markings.
All of the Navy purchased revolvers saw use on board ships, and considering the harsh environment they were exposed to, this gun is in really great shape. A Colt Navy-Navy is a real coup for any serious collector of US marital percussion revolvers to acquire. This gun would be a great addition to any such collection or to a Civil War USN collection. This is simply a great gun that you will be very proud to own and to display.
http://www.collegehillarsenal.com/shop/product.php?printable=Y&productid=936
David
P.S.
The gun shown below Sn # 61308 sold on Oct 27 2011 at Little John's Auction Service in California for $7,000 plus buyers premium of $1,085.
Early Colt U.S. martial Navy-Navy Model 1851 percussion revolver originally in the Swayze collection and pictured in his book on ’51 Navies, page 86.
The Swayze book is shown above.
SOLD
7,000.00USDto joebusch+ (1,085.00) buyer's premium + taxes, fees, etc...
This item SOLD at 2011 Oct 27 @ 14:11UTC-7 : PDT/MST
http://www.icollector.com/Early-Col...r-originally-in-the-Swayze-collecti_i11291979
The same gun Sn #61308 sold at an earlier auction on March 13 2011 (7 months earlier) for $3,393.
Go figure?
http://www.auctionflex.com/showlot.ap?co=23431&weiid=5772278
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Although in no way as rare as the’ 51 Colt Navy-Navy revolvers this ’51 Navy-Army revolver was purchased by the U.S. Government in 1857 for the Army.
The markings on this martial revolver are very clear and it is all matching.
(The cylinder scene is very complete....quite difficult to find.)
The Navy-Armies also have the U.S. marking on the frame, but unlike the Navy-Navy revolvers that have the U.S.N. and inspector markings on the bottom of the grip strap there is an inspector’s final acceptance cartouche on the left grip of the Navy-Armies.
There is also a faint sub-inspector’s cartouche on the right grip. (Not shown.)
These packets of .36 cal cartridges are not that easy to find.
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Skinny 1950,
As you have an interest in these Civil War period Colts you might find this dealer’s web site interesting.
This dealer has sold some of the nicest Colts that I have ever seen.
This is ‘eye candy’…..I have no idea what they sold for, but sometimes seeing what really superb examples look like creates a bench mark of some sort????
http://www.michaelsimens.com/Antique_Guns_Colt_Revolvers_Pistols_Rifles_Accessories.asp?offset=-1
On another subject;
Shown below is the finest example of a single action Model 1863 Starr revolver that I have ever seen.
I own a very decent Model 1858 double action Starr revolver….but it does not hold a candle to the single action shown above.
Holsters for the Starr DA are very rare, and expensive when found.
I only own one CW holster that was used for the Model 1860 Colt Army and Model 1858 New Model Remington revolvers.....manufacturer marked E.###lord, Chicopee, Mass.
P.S.
I realize we are moving off the subject of this thread regarding 49 Pocket Colts and remaining silver finish. ….sorry for that.
As you have an interest in these Civil War period Colts you might find this dealer’s web site interesting.
This dealer has sold some of the nicest Colts that I have ever seen.
This is ‘eye candy’…..I have no idea what they sold for, but sometimes seeing what really superb examples look like creates a bench mark of some sort????
http://www.michaelsimens.com/Antique_Guns_Colt_Revolvers_Pistols_Rifles_Accessories.asp?offset=-1
On another subject;
Shown below is the finest example of a single action Model 1863 Starr revolver that I have ever seen.
I own a very decent Model 1858 double action Starr revolver….but it does not hold a candle to the single action shown above.
Holsters for the Starr DA are very rare, and expensive when found.
I only own one CW holster that was used for the Model 1860 Colt Army and Model 1858 New Model Remington revolvers.....manufacturer marked E.###lord, Chicopee, Mass.
P.S.
I realize we are moving off the subject of this thread regarding 49 Pocket Colts and remaining silver finish. ….sorry for that.
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NorthCoastBigBore
CGN frequent flyer
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x2 love these threads
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drm3m, great stuff, you are a true asset here on the Nutz. Cheers
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Thanks for the comments Skinny 1950, Win 38-55, NorthCoastBigBore and Steppenwolf.
On the link below Michael Simens shows two Martial 61 Colt Navies with his comments.
http://www.michaelsimens.com/Antique_Guns_Colt_Revolvers_Pistols_Rifles_Accessories.asp?offset=-1
Look at the finish on this 51 Navy...it is the first revolver shown on the link above.
I don't think that it gets any better than this. (This gun is not martially marked but it was manufactured in the middle of the Civil War.)
This is what these guns originally looked like...I suspect.
I can't imagine what this gun sold for.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1862 manufactured-Martially Marked Colt 1861 Navy.
Michael Simen's comment- this is the most difficult to find of the Colt Civil War martials.
Fully sub-inspected on all major parts.
It has original light roll on the cylinder and a single cartouche on the right grip.
This is the subject gun.
These martial 61 Navies typically do not have the U.S. marking on the frame that is found on the '51 martial Colt Navies.
-------------------------------------
I own the 61 Colt Navy shown below it is not martially marked and was manufactured in 1861 with serial number 3830.
There is no remaining cylinder scene on this revolver and the remaining markings are faint.
61 Colt Navies are generally not that easy to find…..let alone a martially marked example.
---------------------------------------
A fellow collector out east has three of them...none have martial markings.....his comment.
"I would be very concerned about fakes if I ever come across one".
David
P.S.
I always find it interesting to see how a dealer describes his guns.
This dealer usually provides many photos and makes an effort on the description.
Martially Marked Colt 1861 Navy Revolver.
http://www.antiquearmsinc.com/marked-colt-1861-navy-revolver.htm
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As a point of interest this '51 martial Colt sold for $8,500 in Feb 2010.
I guess the Civil War period belongs to the American collectors.
http://www.icollector.com/Excellent...ussion-revolver-36-cal-7-1-2-octagon_i8787957
Lot #1015
Sold for: $8,500.00
Little John's Auction Service
Internet Buyer's Premium: 15%
Location: Anaheim, CA
Lot Description:
Excellent Martially- marked U.S. Colt Model 1851 Navy percussion revolver, .36 cal., 7-1/2” octagon barrel, blue and case hardened finish, wood grips, #61875. This gun is in overall excellent condition showing approx. 80% original blue on the barrel, plum patina on the cylinder with the majority of the cylinder scene clearly visible including the engagement dates; approx. 95% original case colors on the frame and the loading lever; all matching visible serial numbers including the wedge, strong bore, crisp action, sharp markings, very good grips with outlines of both cartouches visible. A great example of this popular Civil War sidearm. Est.: $8,500-$9,500.
David
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Where have values gone for these guns?
I bought this '51 martially marked Colt Navy fom David Condon (a high end dealer in the U.S.) back in Dec 1990 for $1550 USD. (Over the phone)
Admitted the CDN $ was where ever it was back then.
The value of certain U.S. antique arms have more than kept up with inflation.
I think that the Civil War stuff fits into this catagory....as long as the U.S. appetitite for these pieces remains as it is.
---------------------------------------------------------
Purchased at the Gettysburg Civil War Show in June 2001 for $1,500 USD.
Early 1863 Model 1860 Colt Army- Sn # 2346.
These cartridges are not mine.....36 and .44cal.
C.W. skin (treated paper) cartridges.
The J&D patent (#33,393 - October 1, 1861) was issued for "an improvement in envelopes for cartridges" and the cartridges made under this patent were officially called "Johnson and Dow's Combustible and Water Proof Cartridges".
The patent calls for a cartridge case of gun-cotton, paper, cloth or other fabric or texture treated with any nitrate and an oxygenating salt to make it "highly inflammable and instantly combustible"...
The finished cartridge was dipped in collodion (also highly inflammable) to make it waterproof.
In addition to the durability of these cartridges, tests and actual field use indicated that the cartridges were easier to load, since no tearing was required and the whole cartridge was simply placed in the bore. One regimental commander later wrote that the regiment adjacent to his on the firing line had been equipped with J&D cartridges and were able to fire three shots for every two of his own regiment.
The first J&D cartridges for .58 cal rifle musket were ordered by the Federal government on March 24, 1862. Cartridges using the J&D patent were also produced by Elam O. Potter in both rifle musket and revolver calibers.
Julius Hotchkiss patented the skin cartridge, which D.C. Sage (and a few others) manufactured; again waterproof by the nature of the skin. Again the power of the percussion cap penetrates the skin and ignites the powder. Some of the .44 cal. Army packets were labelled “Waterproof Skin Cartridges.”
The patented cartridge by Doctors Doremus and Budd had a powder envelope formed by pressing the powder into molds under high tonnage, attaching them to bullets, and then dipping them into collodion, which waterproofed them, is extremely flammable and easily ignited with a percussion cap.
The combustible cartridges allowed quickness in loading, firing and being waterproof, became useful in the field. You didn’t need good teeth to tear them open and unnecessary handling.
On the link below Michael Simens shows two Martial 61 Colt Navies with his comments.
http://www.michaelsimens.com/Antique_Guns_Colt_Revolvers_Pistols_Rifles_Accessories.asp?offset=-1
Look at the finish on this 51 Navy...it is the first revolver shown on the link above.
I don't think that it gets any better than this. (This gun is not martially marked but it was manufactured in the middle of the Civil War.)
This is what these guns originally looked like...I suspect.
I can't imagine what this gun sold for.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1862 manufactured-Martially Marked Colt 1861 Navy.
Michael Simen's comment- this is the most difficult to find of the Colt Civil War martials.
Fully sub-inspected on all major parts.
It has original light roll on the cylinder and a single cartouche on the right grip.
This is the subject gun.
These martial 61 Navies typically do not have the U.S. marking on the frame that is found on the '51 martial Colt Navies.
-------------------------------------
I own the 61 Colt Navy shown below it is not martially marked and was manufactured in 1861 with serial number 3830.
There is no remaining cylinder scene on this revolver and the remaining markings are faint.
61 Colt Navies are generally not that easy to find…..let alone a martially marked example.
---------------------------------------
A fellow collector out east has three of them...none have martial markings.....his comment.
"I would be very concerned about fakes if I ever come across one".
David
P.S.
I always find it interesting to see how a dealer describes his guns.
This dealer usually provides many photos and makes an effort on the description.
Martially Marked Colt 1861 Navy Revolver.
http://www.antiquearmsinc.com/marked-colt-1861-navy-revolver.htm
----------------------------------------------------------------
As a point of interest this '51 martial Colt sold for $8,500 in Feb 2010.
I guess the Civil War period belongs to the American collectors.
http://www.icollector.com/Excellent...ussion-revolver-36-cal-7-1-2-octagon_i8787957
Lot #1015
Sold for: $8,500.00
Little John's Auction Service
Internet Buyer's Premium: 15%
Location: Anaheim, CA
Lot Description:
Excellent Martially- marked U.S. Colt Model 1851 Navy percussion revolver, .36 cal., 7-1/2” octagon barrel, blue and case hardened finish, wood grips, #61875. This gun is in overall excellent condition showing approx. 80% original blue on the barrel, plum patina on the cylinder with the majority of the cylinder scene clearly visible including the engagement dates; approx. 95% original case colors on the frame and the loading lever; all matching visible serial numbers including the wedge, strong bore, crisp action, sharp markings, very good grips with outlines of both cartouches visible. A great example of this popular Civil War sidearm. Est.: $8,500-$9,500.
David
----------------------------------------------------------------
Where have values gone for these guns?
I bought this '51 martially marked Colt Navy fom David Condon (a high end dealer in the U.S.) back in Dec 1990 for $1550 USD. (Over the phone)
Admitted the CDN $ was where ever it was back then.
The value of certain U.S. antique arms have more than kept up with inflation.
I think that the Civil War stuff fits into this catagory....as long as the U.S. appetitite for these pieces remains as it is.
---------------------------------------------------------
Purchased at the Gettysburg Civil War Show in June 2001 for $1,500 USD.
Early 1863 Model 1860 Colt Army- Sn # 2346.
These cartridges are not mine.....36 and .44cal.
C.W. skin (treated paper) cartridges.
The J&D patent (#33,393 - October 1, 1861) was issued for "an improvement in envelopes for cartridges" and the cartridges made under this patent were officially called "Johnson and Dow's Combustible and Water Proof Cartridges".
The patent calls for a cartridge case of gun-cotton, paper, cloth or other fabric or texture treated with any nitrate and an oxygenating salt to make it "highly inflammable and instantly combustible"...
The finished cartridge was dipped in collodion (also highly inflammable) to make it waterproof.
In addition to the durability of these cartridges, tests and actual field use indicated that the cartridges were easier to load, since no tearing was required and the whole cartridge was simply placed in the bore. One regimental commander later wrote that the regiment adjacent to his on the firing line had been equipped with J&D cartridges and were able to fire three shots for every two of his own regiment.
The first J&D cartridges for .58 cal rifle musket were ordered by the Federal government on March 24, 1862. Cartridges using the J&D patent were also produced by Elam O. Potter in both rifle musket and revolver calibers.
Julius Hotchkiss patented the skin cartridge, which D.C. Sage (and a few others) manufactured; again waterproof by the nature of the skin. Again the power of the percussion cap penetrates the skin and ignites the powder. Some of the .44 cal. Army packets were labelled “Waterproof Skin Cartridges.”
The patented cartridge by Doctors Doremus and Budd had a powder envelope formed by pressing the powder into molds under high tonnage, attaching them to bullets, and then dipping them into collodion, which waterproofed them, is extremely flammable and easily ignited with a percussion cap.
The combustible cartridges allowed quickness in loading, firing and being waterproof, became useful in the field. You didn’t need good teeth to tear them open and unnecessary handling.
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I noticed this piece being offered on Greg Martin Auctions back in January 2010.
I try to save photos and info on guns in very special condition...this is one of them.
The estimate was $100,000-$150,000.....it sold for $85,000.
Way out of my league....but interesting never the less.
Guns in this condition exist I guess.....however I have never seen a Model 1860 Colt Army that looked like this.
Lot #1043. Cased Colt Civilian Model 1860 Army Revolver in Exceptional Condition, with Accessories.
Description:
Serial no. 152329, .44 perc. cal., 6-shot cylinder with roll-engraved naval engagement scene, 8” barrel marked “ – ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA - .” Left side of frame stamped “COLTS/PATENT.” Left shoulder of triggerguard with “44 CAL” marking. Frame cut for shoulder stock on recoil shield, but made with the civilian pattern three-screws. Notch on buttstrap for shoulder stock clamp. High gloss civilian blued finish, with case-hardened loading lever, frame and hammer. Silver-plated brass triggerguard. Varnished one-piece walnut grips. Mahogany case, lined in burgundy velvet, with accessories of stand-of-flags Colt’s Patent powder flask embossed on both sides, blued steel mold with “COLT’S/PATENT” on spruecutter and “C” on one arm, blued steel L-shaped screwdriver/nipple wrench, can of Eley Bros. percussion caps in paper wrapper, case key and four extra nipples.
Condition:
Excellent. Showing 98% bright blue and 99% vivid colors to case-hardening, minor marks on blued surface, minor patch oxidation on right side of barrel, the buttstrap with oxidation and small amount of blue remaining, rest of backstrap with 99% bright blue. Traces of silver plating on triggerguard strap, mellow patina to brass. Crisp markings and cylinder scene, relatively light roll partly due to factory polish for bright blue. Grips with 100% rich varnish, minor nicks at butt. Minor fading and wear to velvet case lining. Light marks on exterior with 99% varnish. Ex Collection: Russell Goldstein; Fred Sweeney.
Estimate: $100,000 - $150,000
David
I try to save photos and info on guns in very special condition...this is one of them.
The estimate was $100,000-$150,000.....it sold for $85,000.
Way out of my league....but interesting never the less.
Guns in this condition exist I guess.....however I have never seen a Model 1860 Colt Army that looked like this.
Lot #1043. Cased Colt Civilian Model 1860 Army Revolver in Exceptional Condition, with Accessories.
Description:
Serial no. 152329, .44 perc. cal., 6-shot cylinder with roll-engraved naval engagement scene, 8” barrel marked “ – ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA - .” Left side of frame stamped “COLTS/PATENT.” Left shoulder of triggerguard with “44 CAL” marking. Frame cut for shoulder stock on recoil shield, but made with the civilian pattern three-screws. Notch on buttstrap for shoulder stock clamp. High gloss civilian blued finish, with case-hardened loading lever, frame and hammer. Silver-plated brass triggerguard. Varnished one-piece walnut grips. Mahogany case, lined in burgundy velvet, with accessories of stand-of-flags Colt’s Patent powder flask embossed on both sides, blued steel mold with “COLT’S/PATENT” on spruecutter and “C” on one arm, blued steel L-shaped screwdriver/nipple wrench, can of Eley Bros. percussion caps in paper wrapper, case key and four extra nipples.
Condition:
Excellent. Showing 98% bright blue and 99% vivid colors to case-hardening, minor marks on blued surface, minor patch oxidation on right side of barrel, the buttstrap with oxidation and small amount of blue remaining, rest of backstrap with 99% bright blue. Traces of silver plating on triggerguard strap, mellow patina to brass. Crisp markings and cylinder scene, relatively light roll partly due to factory polish for bright blue. Grips with 100% rich varnish, minor nicks at butt. Minor fading and wear to velvet case lining. Light marks on exterior with 99% varnish. Ex Collection: Russell Goldstein; Fred Sweeney.
Estimate: $100,000 - $150,000
David
In 2006 I bought this Manhattan revolver Sn 3601 from John Denner….his description is below.
MANHATTAN NAVY SERIES 1 CIVIL WAR REVOLVER .36 Cal. Circa 1859-68. Five shot, 4 inch barrel. Barrel address “Manhattan Fire Arms Mfg. Co. New York”. Traces of blue in protected areas. Matching numbers. Cylinder has clear panels, note 10 cylinder stops. Wood grips are excellent retaining most of the original varnish. Brass trigger guard has strong traces of silver plating.
NOTE;
Series 1 Navy Manhattans (.36 cal) were manufactured from early 1859 to January 1860, with a serial number range of 1-4200.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MANHATTAN FIREARMS MANUFACTURING CO.
(circa 1856 to 1873)
From Michaels web site.
http://manhattanfirearms.com/
The Manhattan Fire Arms Manufacturing Co. was founded by a group
of New Jersey businessmen in 1856. Their goal was to take advantage
of Colt’s patent for revolving firearms that was due to expire in 1857.
The founders hired Thomas Bacon to became the Superintendent of
Manufacturing.
Manufacturing began in Norwich, Connecticut and in 1859 moved to Newark,
New Jersey. Thomas Bacon remained in Norwich and started his own
firearms company. During their existence, Manhattan Firearms produced
approximately 175,000 pistols. Only Colt, Remington, and Winchester
produced more guns during this era in which included the Civil War.
While waiting for Colt’s patent to expire, Manhattan first made copies of
American firearms that no longer had patent protection. These included
pepperboxes and various single-shot designs. Shortly thereafter, they
turned their attention to making Colt-style revolvers in both the .31 caliber
Pocket and .36 caliber Navy styles. Manhattan patented an extra set of
cylinder safety notches on these models. Manhattans can be easily
identified by the many notches on their cylinders.
After the Civil War, Manhattan production primarily consisted of a copy of
the Smith & Wesson .22 caliber cartridge revolver and a single-shot boot
pistol under the name "HERO". Manhattan changed it's name in 1868 to
American Standard Tool Company and began to market industrial tools as
well as firearms. American Standard Tool closed during the financial panic of
1873.
Manhattan Firearms also manufactured guns under the trade names “Hero”,
Were there any Manhattans used in the Civil War?
Manhattan decided that if everyone else was selling out to the government, that they would corner the market by selling all their production to the civilian market. Several soldiers and state militias bought these guns as a personal sidearm for officers. There are government papers showing the U.S. did buy a few Manhattans, but no government contracts were given by the War Department
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
These little revolvers would probably fit into the category of private purchases during the Civil War much like the 49 Colt Pocket .31 cal. …although the Manhattan Navy was .36 cal.
The silver plating on the grip strap and trigger guard seems to have been the norm with these guns.
The Manhattan shown below is an example of the finish on the guns that are in better condition.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Three pistols that 'might' have been 'private purchases' during the Civil War.
Model 1849 Colt Pocket revolver .31 cal - manufactured in 1855. -Sn.101792.
Model 1862 Colt Police .36 cal.-manufactured in early 1863- Sn.16534.
Is this CW soldier holding a Colt 62 Police?
Manhattan series 1 .36 cal. Navy revolver.- Sn. 3601- manufacture date for Series 1 guns is early 1859 to January 1860 ---Serial number range for Series 1 is 1-4200.
The items in the next two photos do not belong to me.
A period photo of a CW soldier with a Manhattan revolver.
Two photos from Michael's web site......high grade stuff.
Manhattan manufactured some nice guns.
David
MANHATTAN NAVY SERIES 1 CIVIL WAR REVOLVER .36 Cal. Circa 1859-68. Five shot, 4 inch barrel. Barrel address “Manhattan Fire Arms Mfg. Co. New York”. Traces of blue in protected areas. Matching numbers. Cylinder has clear panels, note 10 cylinder stops. Wood grips are excellent retaining most of the original varnish. Brass trigger guard has strong traces of silver plating.
NOTE;
Series 1 Navy Manhattans (.36 cal) were manufactured from early 1859 to January 1860, with a serial number range of 1-4200.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MANHATTAN FIREARMS MANUFACTURING CO.
(circa 1856 to 1873)
From Michaels web site.
http://manhattanfirearms.com/
The Manhattan Fire Arms Manufacturing Co. was founded by a group
of New Jersey businessmen in 1856. Their goal was to take advantage
of Colt’s patent for revolving firearms that was due to expire in 1857.
The founders hired Thomas Bacon to became the Superintendent of
Manufacturing.
Manufacturing began in Norwich, Connecticut and in 1859 moved to Newark,
New Jersey. Thomas Bacon remained in Norwich and started his own
firearms company. During their existence, Manhattan Firearms produced
approximately 175,000 pistols. Only Colt, Remington, and Winchester
produced more guns during this era in which included the Civil War.
While waiting for Colt’s patent to expire, Manhattan first made copies of
American firearms that no longer had patent protection. These included
pepperboxes and various single-shot designs. Shortly thereafter, they
turned their attention to making Colt-style revolvers in both the .31 caliber
Pocket and .36 caliber Navy styles. Manhattan patented an extra set of
cylinder safety notches on these models. Manhattans can be easily
identified by the many notches on their cylinders.
After the Civil War, Manhattan production primarily consisted of a copy of
the Smith & Wesson .22 caliber cartridge revolver and a single-shot boot
pistol under the name "HERO". Manhattan changed it's name in 1868 to
American Standard Tool Company and began to market industrial tools as
well as firearms. American Standard Tool closed during the financial panic of
1873.
Manhattan Firearms also manufactured guns under the trade names “Hero”,
Were there any Manhattans used in the Civil War?
Manhattan decided that if everyone else was selling out to the government, that they would corner the market by selling all their production to the civilian market. Several soldiers and state militias bought these guns as a personal sidearm for officers. There are government papers showing the U.S. did buy a few Manhattans, but no government contracts were given by the War Department
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
These little revolvers would probably fit into the category of private purchases during the Civil War much like the 49 Colt Pocket .31 cal. …although the Manhattan Navy was .36 cal.
The silver plating on the grip strap and trigger guard seems to have been the norm with these guns.
The Manhattan shown below is an example of the finish on the guns that are in better condition.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Three pistols that 'might' have been 'private purchases' during the Civil War.
Model 1849 Colt Pocket revolver .31 cal - manufactured in 1855. -Sn.101792.
Model 1862 Colt Police .36 cal.-manufactured in early 1863- Sn.16534.
Is this CW soldier holding a Colt 62 Police?
Manhattan series 1 .36 cal. Navy revolver.- Sn. 3601- manufacture date for Series 1 guns is early 1859 to January 1860 ---Serial number range for Series 1 is 1-4200.
The items in the next two photos do not belong to me.
A period photo of a CW soldier with a Manhattan revolver.
Two photos from Michael's web site......high grade stuff.
Manhattan manufactured some nice guns.
David
Last edited:
I noticed this piece being offered on Greg Martin Auctions back in January 2010.
I try to save photos and info on guns in very special condition...this is one of them.
The estimate was $100,000-$150,000.....it sold for $85,000.
Way out of my league....but interesting never the less.
Guns in this condition exist I guess.....however I have never seen a Model 1860 Colt Army that looked like this.
Lot #1043. Cased Colt Civilian Model 1860 Army Revolver in Exceptional Condition, with Accessories.
Description:
Serial no. 152329, .44 perc. cal., 6-shot cylinder with roll-engraved naval engagement scene, 8” barrel marked “ – ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA - .” Left side of frame stamped “COLTS/PATENT.” Left shoulder of triggerguard with “44 CAL” marking. Frame cut for shoulder stock on recoil shield, but made with the civilian pattern three-screws. Notch on buttstrap for shoulder stock clamp. High gloss civilian blued finish, with case-hardened loading lever, frame and hammer. Silver-plated brass triggerguard. Varnished one-piece walnut grips. Mahogany case, lined in burgundy velvet, with accessories of stand-of-flags Colt’s Patent powder flask embossed on both sides, blued steel mold with “COLT’S/PATENT” on spruecutter and “C” on one arm, blued steel L-shaped screwdriver/nipple wrench, can of Eley Bros. percussion caps in paper wrapper, case key and four extra nipples.
Condition:
Excellent. Showing 98% bright blue and 99% vivid colors to case-hardening, minor marks on blued surface, minor patch oxidation on right side of barrel, the buttstrap with oxidation and small amount of blue remaining, rest of backstrap with 99% bright blue. Traces of silver plating on triggerguard strap, mellow patina to brass. Crisp markings and cylinder scene, relatively light roll partly due to factory polish for bright blue. Grips with 100% rich varnish, minor nicks at butt. Minor fading and wear to velvet case lining. Light marks on exterior with 99% varnish. Ex Collection: Russell Goldstein; Fred Sweeney.
Estimate: $100,000 - $150,000
David
WOW!! That 1860 is absolutely stunning. I would love to find one like that in the walls of my old house. Never seen one that looked so new, even in photos.
Scratched history on guns is not really what collectors want to see…generally.
I inherited this S&W Model No.2 Old Model revolver (a.k.a. Model No.2 Army)
.32 caliber Long Rim Fire, (Smith & Wesson Number 2 cartridge.)
From my father in-law in 1991.
These guns were manufactured between 1861 & 1872.
The serial number on this gun is 42584 and was probably manufactured around 1868. (Unfortunately not a Civil War period gun.)
On April 17th 1960 a man showed up at his front door to rob him using this Smith & Wesson revolver…the gun was wrestled away from the intruder …who then fled and was captured by the police a few blocks away.
Sometime after the court case the police gave the revolver back to my father in-law as a souvenir….after filing down the hammer to prevent firing.
According to reports from the family ….the gun was loaded.
My father in-law was a man that was close to his money…the wrong guy to try and steal from….he went on to become the mayor of a sizable Ontario city for thirteen years.
I believe the police decided to commemorate the event by scratching the date of the event on the gun...otherwise it is in pretty decent condition.
I have been looking for an ejection lug which is missing….I doubt I will ever find an original replacement part.
This story comes from various family sources.....this bandito must have had a weakness for black powder vintage firearms????
David
The missing ejection lug is shown on the gun below.
MP38 posted these photos in the photo gallery on page 68.
This is probably a Civil War S&W.....and I love the holster.....very hard to find.
Here were MP38's comments;
Here's a .32 rimfire Smith & Wesson Old Army No.2 in its original holster.
These revolvers were manufactured from 1861 to 1874, however those with serial numbers under 35731 (such as this example) were produced prior to May 1, 1865.
The Old Army No.2 was a popular sidearm with many officers and enlisted men during the Civil War.
Historical note...General George Armstrong Custer is known to have owned a pair of these, and Wild Bill Hickok, marshall of Deadwood was carrying an Old Army No.2 the night he was shot in August 1874.
-----------------------------------------------
A period photo of George Armstrong Custer (on the left) holding a Colt revolver of some sort...probably a '60 Army.
Custer on the left wearing a holster for a 60 Army or a 58 Remington.
Their cavalry sabers were either U.S Models 1860 (bottom) or 1840 (top).
I inherited this S&W Model No.2 Old Model revolver (a.k.a. Model No.2 Army)
.32 caliber Long Rim Fire, (Smith & Wesson Number 2 cartridge.)
From my father in-law in 1991.
These guns were manufactured between 1861 & 1872.
The serial number on this gun is 42584 and was probably manufactured around 1868. (Unfortunately not a Civil War period gun.)
On April 17th 1960 a man showed up at his front door to rob him using this Smith & Wesson revolver…the gun was wrestled away from the intruder …who then fled and was captured by the police a few blocks away.
Sometime after the court case the police gave the revolver back to my father in-law as a souvenir….after filing down the hammer to prevent firing.
According to reports from the family ….the gun was loaded.
My father in-law was a man that was close to his money…the wrong guy to try and steal from….he went on to become the mayor of a sizable Ontario city for thirteen years.
I believe the police decided to commemorate the event by scratching the date of the event on the gun...otherwise it is in pretty decent condition.
I have been looking for an ejection lug which is missing….I doubt I will ever find an original replacement part.
This story comes from various family sources.....this bandito must have had a weakness for black powder vintage firearms????
David
The missing ejection lug is shown on the gun below.
MP38 posted these photos in the photo gallery on page 68.
This is probably a Civil War S&W.....and I love the holster.....very hard to find.
Here were MP38's comments;
Here's a .32 rimfire Smith & Wesson Old Army No.2 in its original holster.
These revolvers were manufactured from 1861 to 1874, however those with serial numbers under 35731 (such as this example) were produced prior to May 1, 1865.
The Old Army No.2 was a popular sidearm with many officers and enlisted men during the Civil War.
Historical note...General George Armstrong Custer is known to have owned a pair of these, and Wild Bill Hickok, marshall of Deadwood was carrying an Old Army No.2 the night he was shot in August 1874.
-----------------------------------------------
A period photo of George Armstrong Custer (on the left) holding a Colt revolver of some sort...probably a '60 Army.
Custer on the left wearing a holster for a 60 Army or a 58 Remington.
Their cavalry sabers were either U.S Models 1860 (bottom) or 1840 (top).
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