This is one of only an estimated 225 Volcanic No. 1 lever action pocket pistols manufactured with the longer 6 inch "target" barrels (6 1/2 inch in this case) by the New Haven Arms Company in New Haven, Connecticut c. 1857-1862 per "Volcanic Firearms" (2011) by Lewis and Rutter, page 76. 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 "553" 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.

Very good, retains 25% original blue finish on the barrel with smooth brown patina and scattered light freckling on the balance, and 10% original silver plated finish on the frame, strongest on the top, edges and in protected areas. A crack is visible in the metal ahead of and behind the front sight. The legend on the top barrel flat is defined, and the engraving remains crisp. Grips are also very good with a few filled in repairs visible in the upper corners, some minor lower edge wear, and a few minor nicks at the lower corners. Mechanically fine.