This Volcanic No. 1 Pocket Pistol was manufactured circa 1860 by the New Haven Arms Company. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the legend "NEW HAVEN CONN. PATENT FEB. 14. 1854". The lack of Volcanic markings and the addition of "Patent" before the February 14, 1854, date indicates that the pistol was manufactured after Oliver Winchester reorganized the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company into the New Haven Arms Company in April 1857. The serial number is stamped on the left side of the butt beneath the grips and on the inside of each panel. The top and sides of the receiver and the back strap are engraved with the large open scroll work utilized by the New Haven Arms Company on factory engraved guns. The pistol has the distinctive octagon barrel with integral magazine, silver plated brass frame, and lever with finger hole. The pistol has a small pinched blade front sight and rear notch sight on the receiver. The two-piece walnut grips have a high polish "piano" varnish. The New Haven Arms Company produced an estimated total of 3,300 lever action pistols and carbines between 1857 and 1860. This total includes an estimated 1,075 No. 1 Pocket Pistols, 850 of which have shorter 3 1/2 inch barrels.

Very good. 30% of the original silver plating remains with an attractive aged patina on the exposed brass surfaces. The iron components have a mottled brown patina with patches of minor pitting and oxidation, and some edge wear. The refinished grips are very good with some glossy varnish, a few small dings and minor scrapes, and a separated section on the right panel. Mechanically functions, but lever is slightly loose. Clear engraving and markings.