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  • /Lot 1107

Lot 1107:Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Conversion Revolver

April 14th, 2018|Rock Island, IL
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  • /Lot 1107

Lot 1107:Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Conversion Revolver

April 14th, 2018|Rock Island, IL
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Estimated Price$3,000 - $4,500
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Documented Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Period Cartridge Conversion Revolver

This revolver was manufactured in 1853 and has fine Germanic scroll engraving on the rear half of the barrel, all of both sides of the frame, and on the grip frame. The hammer has the wolf head motif. The engraving is clearly that of Gustave Young or one of the top engravers in his shop. The barrel has a small post front sight and "Saml Colt" in hand engraved Gothic script. The left side of the frame has "COLTS/PATENT" engraved instead of stamped. The matching serial number is on the bottom of the barrel, frame, trigger guard, and butt and the side of the cylinder. Partial matching serial numbers are stamped on the wedge and cylinder pin and written in ink on the grip within the back strap inlet. The revolver was updated in the period for use with centerfire cartridges by removing the loading lever, cutting off the rear section of the cylinder, fashioning a removable cylinder breech plate, and fitting a firing pin on the nose of the hammer. The work was evidently done by a capable gunsmith and likely served to keep this attractive revolver serviceable into the late 19th century. This revolver is listed by serial number and described in P.L Shumaker's "Colt's Variations of the Old Model Pocket Pistol, 1848-1872" on pages 57-58.

ConditionVery good as period converted/modified with mostly gray and brown patina on the barrel and frame, some faint case colors, 75% plus original silver plating on the grip straps, aged patinas on the brass and silver, some light oxidation, and minor marks and scratches. The trigger and hammer screws are replacements. Most of the markings are crisp, and the cylinder scene remains partially legible. The highly figured grip is very good and has moderate lower edge wear, light scratches and dings throughout, and strong original varnish. Mechanically fine. This is a unique example of early Gustave Young engraving and an unusual period centerfire conversion.
Details
ManufacturerColt
Model1849
TypeRevolver
Serial number
ClassAntique
Caliber / Gauge32 CF
Barrel4 inch octagon
Finishblue/casehardened/silver
Gripwalnut

Item LocationRock Island, IL
Views2386
Catalog page59
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