Lot 157: Colt Model 1860 Army Thuer Conversion Revolver

Offered here is a stunning Colt Thuer conversion Model 1860 Army revolver that was manufactured from 1869-72 with total production about 5,000. The revolver has a high polish blue finish on the barrel, cylinder, and back strap; casehardened loading lever, frame and hammer; and a silver plated brass trigger guard. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped: "-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-". "COLTS/PATENT" is stamped on the left side of the frame. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Texas Navy battle scene and "COLTS PATENT". The full serial number "174986" is stamped on the frame, barrel lug, trigger guard and back strap. The partial matching serial number is "986" on the cylinder pin. The cylinder is not numbered. The rear of the cylinder has been correctly shortened to accommodate the Thuer conversion ring, and the ring has a correct script "E" on the side, which denotes the eject position. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped "44 CAL." The conversion ring has the distinctive knurled turning knob, rebounding firing pin, and ejection mechanism. The Thuer conversion was the first Colt revolver to utilize a metallic cartridge and is a scarce and historically significant revolver that is missing from many of the antique Colt arms collections. The left side of the grip has a fabulous and always desirable relief carved Mexican eagle. The partitioned rosewood case contains a blued two cavity bullet mold marked ""COLTS/PATENT" on the sprue cutter, 8 unloaded brass casings, 4 loaded cartridges, sealed package of .44 CF cartridge manufactured for W.J. Syms & Brother, loading tools and single faced "COLTS/PATENT" marked powder flask Provenance: The Mac McCroskie Collection

Excellent. The barrel and cylinder retain nearly 95% plus original high polished blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. Nearly all of the crisp cylinder scene remains. 40% original high polished blue finish remains on the back strap with the balance a smooth gray patina. 30% plus original silver remains on the trigger guard with the exposed brass having an attractive appearance. 90% plus vivid original case colors remain on the loading lever, hammer and frame. The grip is also excellent with highly attractive color and grain and crisp relief carving. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine showing minor handling/storage marks on the exterior, some high spot wear on the lining and loose lower right section and repaired partition walls. 95% original blue remains on the bullet mold. The powder flask has as few dings and retains 95% plus original lacquer. A rare Colt Model 1860 Army Thuer conversion revolver rarely cataloged in such high condition. This stunning example is a must have for the serious Colt collector.