Page 134 - Auction84-Book1

“The pipe casing is the rarest casing for a Colt firearm, rarer even than the book casing. This appears to be the only known specimen for a percussion Colt.”
-R.L. Wilson 1981 Christie’s “Colt Sale” sold as lot 99
The small amount of finish loss is mainly from some light fading on the left side of the barrel and at the edges. The loading lever, hammer, and frame exhibit 80% of the original smooth smoky-gray casehardening. The trigger grip frame retains 95% plus of the original silver plating which has taken on an attractive aged patina throughout. All of the markings are crisp throughout aside from the trigger guard serial number which is lightly struck,
and the engraving remains exceptionally crisp and distinct. The screws are all in excellent condition, and the wedge retains strong original blue finish and has some minor edge wear on the left. The grip is excellent and has very attractive natural tones and grain, a small amount of shrinkage, very faint age cracks on the butt, and light handling and storage wear. The revolver remains mechanically excellent and tight. The case is extremely fine and has minor compression wear on the lining, a slight tear at the button, and minor storage wear mainly at the edges. This is one of the finest Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolvers we have ever had the pleasure of bringing to auction, and combined with its unique case
and documented provenance from some of the most noteworthy collections of Colt and antique American firearms, it is sure to add significant beauty, interest, and value to any antique firearms collection.
Provenance: Fred E. Hines, William M. Locke, The Robert M. Lee Collection.
Estimate: 50,000 - 85,000
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