Original U.S. Civil War Excellent Colt M1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver with 5" Barrel and Cylinder Scene Made in 1861 - Serial 187560

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. This is a fantastic example, made right at the start of the U.S. Civil War, and it looks to have seen very little use, though it did have some parts swapped out over the years. This beautiful example features Serial Number 187560 on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, and grip frame, with shortened number 7560 on the loading rammer an cylinder arbor pin. The cylinder was replaced, and is marked with 26203, while the barrel wedge is marked 81366. It looks like parts were chosen to match the great condition of the frame and barrel.

The serial number indicates indicates the year of manufacture as 1861, right at the start of the U.S. Civil War, so it almost certainly was issued during the conflict, but looks to have seen very little use. Five shot percussion, .31 caliber with a 5" barrel, and is in lovely condition with much of the original factory bluing retained on the barrel, while the frame still has much of the original case coloring. There is even still most of the silver over nickel plating on the frame, something we very rarely see! Additionally, over 80% of the original "Stagecoach Robbery" engraved cylinder scene can still be seen, which is usually completely worn away. It also still shows the COLT'S PATENT / № marking above and next to the serial number. Often we see these with the markings completely removed from the cylinder, so this is a real treat!

The later Colt "Single Line" address is present and crisp across the top of the octagonal barrel:-

ADDRESS COL SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA.

The revolver bears the correct COLTS PATENT on the left frame under the cylinder, though there is no "31CAL" marking on the trigger guard, which is not uncommon. The walnut grips are in excellent condition, still retaining over 95% of the original "piano varnish" finish, showing wear only around the lower edge. There are no cracks, major dents or other issues. The brass front sight is still present and in very good condition.

The revolver functions beautifully, with accurate indexing and a firm cylinder lockup. We did not notice any of the usual finicky behavior we often see with revolvers of this age, and the mechanics are tight. The barrel frame connection is solid, and has not been adjusted in the past. The bore is in excellent condition, showing a bright finish with crisp lands and grooves. The "progressive rifling" is easily visible, and there is just a tiny bit of past oxidation evident. Really a fantastic bore!  All five cap nipple cones are clear, showing light oxidation and fouling on the exterior from use, but no major damage.

This is a lovely '49 Pocket dating from the beginning of the Civil War with a 5" barrel, a great acquisition for any collection. In fantastic condition with a great look and cylinder scene, ready to display!

Specifications:-

Year of Manufacture: 1861
Caliber: .31cal
Ammunition Type: Cap and Ball
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Overall Length: 10 inches
Action: Single Action Percussion
Feed System: 5 Shot Revolver

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