Manufactured from 1861 to 1863, these revolvers were extremely popular private purchase sidearms for Union troops during the Civil War. This example shows the standard markings and features including factory floral scroll engraving on the frame as well as being inscribed to "Chas. T Van Dusen" and what appears to be "from Fibbenainaqua Crew. 1862." Includes a leather holster with the flap stamped "C.T. VAN DUSEN/CO. L". Charles Van Dusen mustered into Company L of the 8th New York Volunteer Cavalry regiment on 30 September 1862 as an ordnance sergeant. The 8th New York was in the first brigade of Brig. General John Buford's First Cavalry Division on the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg and helped to hold off the Confederate advance until the arrival of the Union I Corps. Van Dusen was later wounded in the wrist by a Confederate saber at Lacey Spring on 21 December 1864 while part of Custer's division. 8 April 1865, the day before the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia at Appamattox Courthouse, Van Dusen was shot through the flesh of the thigh before being mustered out on 27 June 1865. Included with the lot is a copy of "History of the 8th N.Y.V.C." by H. Norton as well as a plethora of documents pertaining to Van Dusen including muster and pension papers and copies of his diary which were sent home to his family.

Fine, showing mostly a smooth grey patina and attractively aged antique patina on the brass with strong traces of the original silver finish in sheltered areas and crisp engraving/inscription. The grip is very fine with some minor dings and scratches concentrated mainly on the butt. Mechanically excellent. The holster is very good with mild wear and cracking, and the strap torn. An attractive revolver and holster that likely saw some of the most historic events of the Civil War!