Offered here is one of only 225 New Haven Arms Co. Volcanic No. 1 Pocket Pistols manufactured with a 6 inch barrel in .31 caliber between 1857 and 1860. Engraved No.1 Pocket pistols with six-inch barrels are much more rare than pistols with plain receivers. Because so few were produced, very few survived, making these pistols extremely desirable in any condition. The pistol has the distinctive octagon barrel with integral eight-shot magazine, loading lever with finger hole, brass receiver and two-piece walnut grips. The pistol has the distinctive octagon barrel with integral eight-shot magazine, loading lever with finger hole, brass receiver and two-piece walnut grips. The receiver is silver-plated, the barrel is blued, and the grips have a varnished finish. The top barrel flat is marked "NEW HAVEN CONN. PATENT FEB. 14. 1854". The serial number is stamped on the grip frame under the left grip panel. These pistols retailed for $13.50 at the time of production but an added expense for engraving and plating as seen on this pistol brought the grand the total to $15.00!

Exceptionally fine. The barrel and magazine tube retain 60% plus original high polished blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. The frame retains 85% plus original silver plating. The engraving is crisp. The lever retains generous traces of original blue in the protected areas. Patterns of original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger. The grips are very fine with some minor scratches and retaining most of the original varnish. Mechanically excellent. A highly attractive engraved Volcanic No. 1 Pocket Pistol that will be a great addition to even the most advanced antique collection. Provenance: Dr. Gerald Klaz collection