Colt made about 10,500 of these .44 caliber six-shot revolvers from ca.1851 to ca. 1861, with serial numbers running from about 10,200 up to 19600. This one is serial 18800, with the number matching on various parts, including wedge and loading assembly, giving it an approximate 1860 date of manufacture. The pistol rates good for condition, with all original parts, no finish, gray metal with shallow dark pitting on the round portion of the barrel, but less on the loading assembly, and little on the rear octagonal portion the barrel or frame, but with dark gray spots overall. The barrel address, ADDRESS SAMl COLT NEW-YORK CITY, is legible on the top barrel flat with the beginning and end just a bit light, and there is a sharp COLT’S / PATENT stamp on the left frame. Serial numbers match and are very legible, though a bit rubbed on the brass triggerguard, and there are just faint traces of the cylinder scene. The nipples are good, not battered. Screw heads show turning. The wood to metal fit is tight and the grips have nice color. The right grip has some small shallow dings and scratches lower front. The left shows more scratches and deeper gouge that has worn smooth from handling. The brass has a medium tone with some very shallow dings on the top right rear of the triggerguard just below the frame. The bore is clean. There is visible rifling. The mechanics are good.

This is a good example of a classic Colt pistol that would fit in an early western display, but also in a cavalry grouping, especially one relating to early war Confederate cavalry who often brought privately purchased arms from militia service into the field.  [sr] [ph:L]

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