The LeMat revolvers invented by Jean Alexandre LeMat of New Orleans are among the most famous and sought after of all 19th century revolvers thanks to their innovative shot barrel and their association with the Confederacy. Several prominent Confederate generals are known to have carried LeMats in their fight against the Union in the bloody American Civil War. No antique arms collection is complete without a LeMat, and there are enough rare variations that an entire collection of LeMats could be assembled. This revolver was formerly in the collection of prominent LeMat collector and researcher Alain F. Serpette and is shown on page 8 of "Prototypes and Extremely Rare LeMat Revolvers and Carbines: Alain F. Serpette’s Collection" by Serpette and his wife, and is described as a Parisian prototype for the removable lanyard hole. As shown in the book, the lanyard hole is part of a separate piece held in place by a cross pin rather than an integral part of the frame. The upper barrel has a bead style blade front sight and is inscribed "Cal Le Mat Bte s g d g Paris" on top with engraved accents, and is marked "1910" and "*/LM" on the right side. The shot barrel loading rod is marked "910" (re-stamped over another number). The hammer has the central selector. The right side of the frame has "1910." The rear of the cylinder has "910" between two of the nipples. The right side of the front strap has a "Z." The grips are checkered, and "MF06400" is cut into the inside of the right grip.

Very good. There are traces of original blue finish and otherwise the metal displays smooth gray and brown patina and minimal spotting. The markings are generally crisp. The grips are fine and have mild scrapes and dings on the otherwise crisp checkering, a thin crack on the upper left, and smooth finish. Mechanically fine. This is a fascinating LeMat variation that is certain to add interest and value to your collection.