This is an extremely rare example of the percussion revolving rifle design invented by Rufus Nichols and Edward Childs of Conway, Massachusetts. Nichols and Childs were issued a patent for this rifle on April 24, 1838. The cylinder is rotated by an external ratchet linked to the hammer. A lever on the left side of the frame locks the cylinder forward to create a gas seal with the breech end of the barrel. Experts estimate that only 100-150 of these rifles were manufactured. This rifle is a six-shot version without a loading lever. "6" is marked on the cylinder, top strap, trigger plate, left side of the frame, and rear screw on the left side of the frame. We have previously sold another very similar example which we listed as number 6. Reading the number on this one in the same direction as the "1838" on the top of the frame would suggest the current example is the number 6, or these may be batch/assembly numbers. The "1838" and "CHILDS" markings are somewhat crude and appear to have been added in the period suggesting this rifle may have been produced before the patent had been granted and then marked before leaving the shop. It has a German silver blade front sight, sporting style rear sight with adjustment screw, two-stage barrel with attractive "wedding band" at the transition, "1838" on the top strap at the breech, "NICHOLS & CHILDS/PATENT 1838/CONWAY/MASS." marked on the left side of the frame, and a very nicely figured birds-eye maple stock with a German silver patchbox and furniture as well as a spread wing eagle accent on the cheek piece and a standing buck at the butt. Provenance: The Dr. Louis C. March Jr. Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Very good with a mix of gray and brown patina on the iron along with some mild oxidation and pitting, attractive aged patina on the German silver fittings, and general mild wear. The stock is very good has very attractive figure, crazed varnish finish, and minor dings and scratches from handling and storage. The timing is slightly off, but the interesting action is otherwise mechanically fine. You can go a long time without an opportunity to acquire one of these rare American revolving rifles.