This is an exceptional example of a Civil War Allen & Wheelock Army revolver that was manufactured in Worchester, Massachusetts circa 1861-62. Some estimates suggest Allen & Wheelock only manufactured approximately 700 of these center hammer revolvers and the Ordnance Department purchased 536 Allen revolvers in 1861; all are presumed to be .44 Army revolvers. Revolvers sold on the civilian market during the Civil War were still used during the war as privately purchased sidearms. The left side of the part octagon barrel is stamped with "ALLEN & WHEELOCK. WORCHESTER. MASS. U.S./ALLEN'S PT'S. JAN.13.DEC.15.1857.SEPT.7.18." The serial number "43" is stamped on the inside of the trigger guard, the rear face of the cylinder, cylinder rod, side of the hammer, underside of the sideplate, left side of the grip frame, and underside of the grips. "1486" stamped on both grip panels.

Fine, retaining 50% original flaking bright blue finish overall with mottled brown patina on the balance and some light scratches. Grips are also fine with some scattered dents, light crazing, and crisp markings. Mechanically excellent.