These distinctive Confederate handguns were manufactured circa 1861-1864, with production estimated at only 100 or less. Many consider them to be the highest quality Confederate revolvers ever made. Based on Samuel Colt's Model 1851 Navy revolvers, manufacture of these revolvers is generally attributed to Augusta Machine Works, but the revolvers are not marked with a maker's name. The Confederate Government owned a factory in Augusta, Georgia, known as the Augusta Machine Works, and "Confederate Handguns" by Albaugh, Benet, and Simmons notes, "We know that this firm engaged in revolver making but have not as yet been able to definitively match the product to the maker." They do however quote multiple local sources as confirming the factory manufactured Colt Model 1851 Navy style revolvers. Today, these guns are now considered as having been made at the Augusta facility and are listed in the Flayderman’s Guide number system as 10-001. They are distinctive next to all other Confederate revolvers due to the shape of their grip and back strap, frame, barrel length, and close tolerance fit and finish. There are two variations of cylinders: six stops and twelve stops, with the six stop cylinders such as this example considered extremely difficult to find. The only markings on this example are the letter "M" marked on the rear surface of the frame, rear surface of the barrel lug, arbor shaft, rear of the hammer, on the left of the front grip strap, the inside surface of the rear grip strap, and the bottom of the walnut grip. Compared to the Colt Navy, these interesting revolvers have noticeably more squared off aspects of the grip frame, and the smooth one piece walnut grip has a distinctive "pinch." The barrel has a small brass cone front sight, and the hammer has a notch rear sight. Information on these revolvers can be found in Albaugh, Benet and Simmons' book "Confederate Handguns" on pages 3-8. Provenance: The Morris Racker collection, a Gentleman

Very good, well above average for a Confederate revolver, exhibiting a smooth gray and brown patina with scattered patches of light pitting, and defined edges in the metal. Brass retains an attractive golden aged patina. Grips are fine with some minor wear, dings on the edges, and scratches. Mechanically fine. This rare Confederate revolver would make for an excellent addition to any Civil War collection.