Confederate government contract Rigdon, Ansley & Co. percussion revolvers were manufactured in Augusta, Georgia, from 1864 to 1865. Approximately 1,000 Rigdon, Ansley & Co. revolvers were manufactured by Charles H. Rigdon after the dissolution of the Leech & Rigdon Co. in 1863. The Rigdon, Ansley Revolvers were an improvement on the Leech & Rigdon Revolvers and are distinguished from the earlier model by the 12-stop cylinder and absence of cylinder safety pins. The revolver has a half-octagon barrel fitted with a brass pin front sight. The rear sight is a notch on the hammer spur. The three screw iron frame lacks a capping groove in the recoil shield cut-out. The loading lever has a wedge latch. The left side of the trigger guard is marked with the letter "W." The trigger guard and back strap are brass and the revolver is fitted with a one-piece walnut grip. The top of the barrel flat is marked "C.S.A." The serial number "1806" is located on the loading lever, barrel, frame, cylinder, barrel wedge, trigger guard and back strap. The "WH" Wescom Hudgins Confederate inspector's mark is stamped on the bottom of the grip. Reportedly from a family that owned a plantation in what is now Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Includes a letter from John Sexton authenticating this revolver.

Good as partially restored. The revolver has an even smooth dark patina with a refinished cylinder over extensive pitting. The cylinder pin and frame screws are replacements. The brass has an attractive aged patina. The grip shows evidence of restoration at the top frame juncture but appears solid on the balance. The inspector's mark is visible. The cylinder and barrel are loose but the action does cycle. A difficult addition to add to any Confederate or Civil War collection!