Original Item: Only One Available. This is a completely matching Imperial German Model 1883 Reichsrevolver manufactured by Franz von Dreyse at Sömmerda. All major components are numbered 4905, while the smaller parts bear the matching abbreviated number 05. Even the interiors of both grip scales are stamped with the full serial number, making this an unusually complete example that appears to have avoided the parts replacement commonly encountered on military revolvers with long service histories. The crossed out and subsequently applied regimental markings on the grip frame add another particularly interesting layer of Imperial German service history and research potential.

The M1879 and M1883 Reichsrevolvers, formally known as the Reichs Commissions Revolver Modell 1879 and Modell 1883, served as standard German military handguns from the late 19th century until they were progressively superseded by the Parabellum P08. The earlier M1879 had a 7 inch barrel chambered for the 10.6×25mmR cartridge and featured a distinctive ringed muzzle. The M1883 retained the same basic mechanism and ammunition but introduced a shorter 5 inch barrel, producing a more compact and practical sidearm.

Collectors often refer to the longer M1879 as the “cavalry model” and the shorter M1883 as the “officer’s model,” although these were not official military designations. Despite being mechanically dated by the early 20th century, both patterns were exceptionally rugged and remained in secondary and reserve service through WWI.

The left side of the frame is marked:

F. v. DREYSE SÖMMERDA

This marking identifies manufacture by Franz von Dreyse at Sömmerda, Prussia. Franz was the son of Johann Nicolaus von Dreyse, the celebrated firearms designer associated with the revolutionary Prussian needle gun. Father and son operated the Sömmerda arms works together, and Franz continued the business following his father’s death in 1867 until his own death in 1894.

The revolver bears the full serial number: 4905

This number appears on all major components. The smaller components are marked: 05

Both grip scales are also internally numbered: 4905

The extensive matching serial numbers are a major collector feature. Military revolvers were frequently repaired, rebuilt, or assembled with replacement components during arsenal maintenance, particularly after prolonged service. The survival of the original numbered parts throughout this example makes it especially desirable.

Imperial German inspection and proof markings are present on the underside of the grip frame. The grip frame also bears two sets of unit markings, one of which was officially canceled before the revolver was reissued.

The crossed out marking reads: A. E. 2. 81.

This may indicate an Ersatz, or replacement, formation associated with the 23rd Field Artillery Regiment, possibly the 2nd Rhenish Field Artillery Regiment. The final number 81 would most likely have served as the weapon or inventory number within that formation. This interpretation has not been conclusively confirmed, and further research may reveal a more precise reading.

The later marking reads: F. A. VIII. 3.

This marking may indicate a Field Artillery formation associated with the VIII Army Corps, possibly the 8th Field Artillery Regiment, known as the 1st Rhenish Field Artillery Regiment “von Holtzendorff.” The final 3 may represent the weapon number, battery, detachment, or another internal designation. Because Imperial German unit marking systems varied over time, this attribution should be regarded as possible rather than definitive.

The presence of a canceled marking followed by a second unit stamp demonstrates that the revolver was transferred or reissued during its military career. Such markings can provide important clues regarding the movements of an individual weapon through the Imperial German supply system and give this example excellent research potential.

The Reichsrevolver is a six shot, single action design. The hammer must be manually cocked before each shot, causing the cylinder to rotate and align the next chamber with the barrel. Loading and unloading are performed through the gate on the right side of the frame. Unlike many contemporary military revolvers, the design does not incorporate a conventional ejector rod, reflecting the conservative and exceptionally robust approach taken by the Imperial commission responsible for its adoption.

A large safety lever is mounted on the left side of the frame. Its function varies according to the position of the hammer. When the hammer is in the firing position, the safety locks it in place. When the hammer is at half cock, the safety can secure it there, allowing the cylinder to be loaded or removed with less risk of the hammer moving unexpectedly.

The revolver was also originally fitted with a substantial lanyard ring at the base of the grip. This allowed the sidearm to be secured to the soldier’s uniform or equipment and reduced the chance of its being lost during mounted movement or field service. The lanyard ring base remains present, but the ring itself is missing. This is commonly encountered because the original component used a split ring design that could be removed or lost.

The revolver is in very good service used condition. Its original blued finish has largely faded to a mottled, oxidized patina across the metal surfaces. There is evidence of past peppering and scattered oxidation, consistent with lengthy military use and storage. The remaining finish and wear give the revolver a strong, untouched service appearance.

The grip scales remain in good condition and show clear wear from handling. There is some damage near the lower portions of the grips, but both scales remain securely fitted and retain their matching internal serial numbers.

The mechanical condition requires careful disclosure. The single action mechanism functions correctly on five of the six chambers. One tooth on the cylinder ratchet is broken, preventing the action from automatically advancing past that chamber. The cylinder must be rotated manually to move beyond it. This is an unusual mechanical fault and is not something we commonly encounter on these otherwise extremely robust revolvers.

Despite the damaged ratchet tooth, the cylinder lockup remains solid when properly indexed. The frame mounted safety is fully functional, and the loading gate operates correctly. The revolver should be regarded as a historical collector arm rather than a firearm intended for use.

The bore is in very good condition and remains mostly bright with clearly visible lands and grooves. Some past oxidation and fouling remain within the grooves, leaving them somewhat darker than the raised surfaces, but the rifling is strong and the bore compares favorably with many surviving military revolvers of this age.

The Reichsrevolver was developed during a period of rapid military and technological change following German unification in 1871. Although repeating and self loading handgun designs were beginning to emerge, the Imperial authorities selected a deliberately simple and heavy duty revolver that could tolerate harsh field conditions and limited maintenance. Its large frame, powerful 10.6mm cartridge, manual safety, and uncomplicated single action mechanism made it a dependable military sidearm.

By the first decade of the 20th century, the Reichsrevolver was being replaced in frontline service by the P08 Parabellum. Nevertheless, shortages and the enormous expansion of the German armed forces during WWI ensured that many M1879 and M1883 revolvers remained in use with reserve, artillery, support, and rear echelon formations.

This is an especially appealing M1883 Reichsrevolver because it combines all matching serial numbers, including both internally numbered grip scales, with two sets of Imperial German unit markings and an identifiable Franz von Dreyse manufacturer inscription. Its strong bore, functional safety, solid cylinder lockup, and honest military patina add considerably to its display value. The missing lanyard ring, grip damage, faded finish, and broken cylinder ratchet tooth are clearly disclosed, but the revolver remains an impressive and historically evocative example for an Imperial German, Reichsrevolver, artillery, WWI sidearm, or early European military handgun collection.

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1885
Caliber: 10.6×25mmR
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 5 inches
Overall Length: 10 inches
Action: Single Action Only
Feed System: 6 Shot Revolver

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NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.

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