This Volcanic No.1 Lever Action Pocket pistol with extra cost factory engraving and silver-plated frame was one of approximately 850 No. 1 Pocket Pistols between 1857 and 1862. At that time, this pistol would have cost $13.50 compared to $12.00 for the plain version, an inexpensive upgrade at the time that has made this particular pistol especially valuable today. This pistol has the distinctive octagonal barrel with integral magazine, "pinched" blade front sight fitted at the muzzle, and "NEW HAVEN CONN./PATENT FEB. 14. 1854" in two lines on top. The silver-plated "gunmetal" frame features classic factory scroll and border engraving, a dovetail mounted notch rear sight, serial number "354" on the left side of the butt under the flat base walnut grips which each feature the matching serial number stamped on the back side. The hammer has hand-cut knurling on the spur. The barrel, bolt, cartridge elevator, and rear sight have a high polish blue finish; the brass frame is silver-plated, the hammer, trigger, and lever are color casehardened; and the walnut grips have a varnished piano finish. The pistol comes in a relined case with a cleaning rod, key, and a tin with remnants of rocket ball ammunition (tin lid absent).

Extremely fine. The barrel retains 90% plus bright original high polish blue finish. 40% original blue finish remains on the lever. The frame retains 80% original silver plating, and the engraving is crisp. The hammer and trigger retain strong original case colors. The grips are very fine with minor handling marks, slight flakes at the toe and heel, and most of the original varnish remaining. The hammer does not lock up when cocked. Otherwise, the pistol appears to be mechanically fine. The relined case is very good with mild wear. It is difficult to acquire Volcanic pistols with much original finish at all, and this stunning pistol retains the vast majority of its bright blue finish and lightly aged silver plating. This is a very attractive cased factory engraved New Haven Arms Co. Volcanic No. 1 pistol and certainly will make a great addition to any antique American firearms collection!