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  • /Lot 1031

Lot 1031:Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson Volcanic No. 1 Pistol

August 16th, 2025|Bedford, TX
  • /Auctions...
  • /Catalog...
  • /Lot 1031

Lot 1031:Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson Volcanic No. 1 Pistol

August 16th, 2025|Bedford, TX
Estimated Price$8,000 - $13,000
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Scarce and Desirable Factory Engraved Smith & Wesson Small Frame Volcanic No. 1 Lever Action Pistol

This very scarce early repeating pistol is one of approximately 1,200 of these No. 1 pistols manufactured by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson in Norwich, Connecticut; 700 of which believed to have been manufactured and assembled by Smith & Wesson between 1854-1855, and the remaining 500 believed to have been assembled by the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. from parts acquired from Smith & Wesson between 1855-1857, per page 31 of "Volcanic Firearms" (2011) by Lewis and Rutter. These are historically significant pieces for both Smith & Wesson and Winchester collectors, as they marked Smith and Wesson's first business venture and are key pieces in the evolution of lever action repeating firearms and self-contained cartridges, which developed into the famous Henry rifle and then Winchester's famous line of lever actions. The octagon section of the barrel is marked "PATENT/FEB. 14. 1854." on the upper left, "SMITH & WESSON/NORWICH. CT." on top, and "CAST-STEEL" on the upper right. Features factory floral scroll engraving on the frame, side plates, and hammer. Post front sight mounted on the barrel, with a notch rear sight mounted on top of the frame. Serial number "B70" marked on the left side of the grip frame, with matching number "70" stamped on the interior of both grip panels. Provenance: The Cam & Deb Cooper Collection

ConditionVery good, with an attractive natural aged appearance, retains strong traces of original brown finish on the barrel and magazine tube assembly, strong traces of original high polish blue finish on the frame concentrated around a few of the protected areas, vivid patterns of original case colors showing on the hammer, with smooth gray patina, spotting, and crisp markings and engraving. Grips are also very good, with some light handling marks, and tight fitment. Mechanically functions. As an important evolutionary step in the history of lever action repeating firearms, this scarce factory engraved Smith & Wesson Volcanic No. 1 pistol would make a fine addition to any antique American arms collection.
Details
ManufacturerSmith & Wesson
ModelVolcanic
TypePistol
Serial number
ClassAntique
Caliber / Gauge31 Volcanic
Barrel4 inch part octagon
Finishbrown/blue
Gripwalnut
Bore conditionThe bore is darkened with some pitting and visible rifling.

Item LocationBedford, TX
Views131
Catalog page48
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