Savage Navy Model revolvers were manufactured prior to the beginning of the Civil War. This example has the standard markings and features of the non-military contract revolvers and is numbered with "2614" on the barrel and "1172" on the side plate and grip frame. Savage Navy revolvers generally have two sets of numbers. In addition, this revolver has "Lieut. Col. John Speidel/May 21st, 1861," inscribed on the butt. John M. Speidel was born in Germany and lived in Bridgeport, Connecticut, prior to the Civil War where he served in the local militia. He enlisted as captain in Company B (Captain Speidel's Rifle Co.) of the 1st Regiment of Connecticut Volunteers for three months starting on April 22, 1861, and was promoted to major on May 10 and then lieutenant colonel on May 31 or June 1, 1861. It is possible the promotion had been known but not yet confirmed earlier given the date on the inscription, or perhaps the engraver accidentally inscribed 21st instead of 31st. In any event, he was promoted due to Lieutenant Colonel John L. Chatfield being promoted to colonel and assigned to lead the 3rd Connecticut Infantry on May 31st. The 1st was engaged at the First Battle of Bull Run on July 21, 1861. The Hartford Daily Courant reported that Speidel was nearly killed by a Confederate cavalryman when his pistol misfired and his saber was struck from his hand during, but another member of his unit saved his life by shooting his attacker through the heart just in time. He mustered out on July 31, 1861. He re-enlisted as a major in the 6th Regiment of Connecticut Volunteers for three years on September 13, 1861, and was promoted to lieutenant colonel again on July 24, 1862. He was severely wounded in the arm while in command of his unit at the Second Battle of Pocotaligo in South Carolina on October 22, 1862. Colonel Chatfield was also wounded in the thigh by artillery fire. Speidel became a major in the Invalid Corps on July 20, 1863, and was promoted to lieutenant colonel on September 29, 1863, but had this appointment revoked in July 9, 1864, due to lack of Senate confirmation. He died in Bridgeport on November 24, 1886. Included with the revolver is an article from "The Gun Report" about another Savage revolver inscribed to a man in Company F of the 1st Connecticut Volunteers as well as some of the above information relating to Speidel. Ex-Kirby Howlett Collection

Fine with 40% bright original blue finish mostly concentrated on the cylinder, loading lever housing, and protected areas; strong case colors remaining visible on the hammer, cocking trigger, and trigger guard; smooth brown patina on the balance, mild edge wear, and general minor marks and scratches. The markings and inscription remain distinct. The nicely figured grips are also fine and have dark oiled finish and some minor dings and scratches concentrated in the lower section. Mechanically excellent. This is a very interesting and well documented revolver inscribed for a Union officer in the early days of the war and will make a great addition to any Civil War collection.