This is one of an estimated 850 No. 1 pocket pistols with a 3 1/2 inch barrel manufactured by the New Haven Arms Co., New Haven, Connecticut, in 1857/58. The pistol has the distinctive octagon barrel with integral six-shot magazine, round finger hole in the lever and flat bottom grips. The pistol is fitted with a pinched blade front sight on the barrel and a notch rear sight at the rear of the frame. The top barrel flat is marked "NEW HAVEN CONN. PATENT FEB. 14. 1854." The deletion of "VOLCANIC REPEATING ARMS CO." from the barrel legend occurred after Oliver Winchester assumed control of the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. and re-organized it as the New Haven Arms Company on May 1, 1857. The serial number is stamped on the left side of the grip frame and on the back of both grip panels. Volcanic firearms are historically significant and represent an important step in the development of American repeating firearms and self-contained cartridges. The lever action and integral spring-loaded magazine introduced with Volcanic pistols and carbines served as the basic design for the Henry rifle and the Winchester Model 1866, 1873 and 1876 rifles. Oliver Winchester's investment in the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company eventually led to the establishment of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company.

Exceptionally fine. The barrel and magazine tube retain 60% bright original high polish blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. 30% bright original blue finish remains on the lever. 90% vivid original case colors remain on the hammer. The excellent frame has a highly attractive mellow aged patina. The grips are very fine with minor handling marks and retaining most of the original finish. The action is tight and functions properly. Truly an exceptional example of a New Haven Arms Volcanic No. 1 pistol that will compliment any great gun collection.