Invented in 1857 and patented by Dr. Jean Alexandre Francois LeMat of New Orleans, with approximately 2,900 manufactured abroad. The LeMat is one of the most distinctive and famous of all 19th century revolvers thanks to its unusual central smoothbore "grape shot" barrel positioned below the standard rifled barrel, plus its use by well-known Confederate military generals and officers including P. G. T. Beauregard, Braxton Bragg, and J. E. B. Stuart. Period advertisements for the revolvers refer to them as "LeMat's Grape Shot Revolvers." These revolvers represented a significant firepower boost over other percussion revolvers of the era, integrating a 9-shot revolver and a 16 gauge "grapeshot" shotgun barrel. The top of the revolver barrel is marked "Col. Lemat Bte s.g.d.g. Paris" on top. The earlier production revolvers, like this example, were manufactured in Paris, France, with later production in Liege, Belgium, and Birmingham, England. A "star" over "LM" proof is stamped on right side of barrel. All matching visible serial numbers marked on the right of the revolver barrel, frame, loading lever, cylinder, shotgun barrel, takedown lever, grip panels and grip screw. This LeMat revolver, serial number 575, is a transitional model with the swivel lanyard ring on the butt and spur trigger guard that are characteristic of the First Model, and the full octagon upper barrel with loading lever on the left side found on Second Model LeMat revolvers. Includes a modern made wooden/plexiglass display case.

Very good plus, as fresh as they come, with an untouched natural age darkened brown patina overall, strong traces of original blue finish visible at some of the edges and protected areas, some minor oxidation and pitting, a few very small minor dings visible on both barrels, and defined markings and edges in the metal. Grips are also very good, with a few small nicks and wear spots in the otherwise distinct checkering. Mechanically fine. This desirable example of a Paris marked transitional LeMat revolver would make a fine addition to any Civil War arms collection!