Original U.S. Civil War Colt M1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver with 4 inch Barrel made in 1860 – Serial 182456

Description

Original Item: Only One Available. The colt ”Pocket Percussion” Model 1849 revolvers in .31cal are essentially scaled down versions of the larger Navy Model 1851 in .36cal, and were developed concurrently. The serial Number 168549 can be found on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, cylinder, and grip frame. The cylinder arbor pin is marked 245, however the loading rammer and barrel wedge are both unmarked arsenal replacements.

The serial number indicates indicates the year of manufacture as 1860, just before the U.S. Civil War, so it almost certainly saw service during the conflict. As this revolver has a serial number under 187000, it has a five round .31 caliber cylinder, instead of the later six. A nice percussion revolver, in .31 caliber with a short 4” barrel, in nice tight condition with nice aged finish on the steel, and a lovely mustard patina on the brass. As with most we see, the ”Stagecoach Holdup” scene on the cylinder is all but gone.

The Colt early two line address is still well marked in two lines across the top of the octagonal barrel –

ADDRESS.COL. SAML COLTHARTFORD CT.

There is also a clear COLTS PATENT marking correctly on the left side of the frame under the cylinder. The walnut grips are in very good shape, with a lovely color and the expected patina of age. They have however lost most of their original ”piano varnish” finish applied at the factory.

The revolver functions correctly, with good indexing and a tight cylinder lockup. We have not noticed any of the usual finicky behavior revolvers of this age can have. The bore shows clear lands and grooves, but also wear and oxidation from service. The barrel – frame connection is almost wobble free. All of the cap nipples on the cylinder are clear, with some light powder burn.

This is a great ’49 Pocket dating from just before the Civil War, a wonderful acquisition for any collection.

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: 1860Caliber: .31calAmmunition Type: Cap and BallBarrel Length: 4 inchesOverall Length: 9 inchesAction: Single Action PercussionFeed System: 5 Shot Revolver

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