{"product_id":"original-rare-u-s-civil-war-era-john-walch-patent-36-caliber-navy-12-shot-percussion-revolver-serial-no-20-only-approximately-200-made","title":"Original Rare U.S. Civil War Era John Walch Patent .36-Caliber Navy 12-Shot Percussion Revolver - Serial No. 20 - Only Approximately 200 Made","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginal Item: Only One Available. \u003cstrong\u003eThis is an exceptionally rare John Walch Patent .36-caliber Navy revolver featuring one of the most unusual repeating-firearm mechanisms developed before the American Civil War\u003c\/strong\u003e. Although the cylinder has only six chambers, each chamber was designed to hold two superimposed powder-and-ball loads, giving the revolver an extraordinary capacity of twelve shots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBearing the extremely low matching \u003cstrong\u003eserial number 20\u003c\/strong\u003e on the grip, right hammer, and cylinder, this appears to be a very early production example. It is also unmarked on the barrel, a scarce configuration reported on some early Walch revolvers. Approximately 200 of the large .36-caliber twelve-shot revolvers are believed to have been manufactured, making surviving examples exceedingly difficult to obtain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Walch Revolver\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Walch patented his superimposed-load revolver design in 1859. The patent describes an elongated revolving cylinder in which two separate charges could be loaded one ahead of the other within each chamber. Separate ignition channels, percussion nipples, hammers, and triggers allowed the front and rear loads to be fired independently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe .36-caliber Walch Navy revolver used a six-chambered cylinder, but each chamber accepted two loads for a total capacity of twelve shots. The smaller Walch revolver used a five-chamber cylinder and could hold ten charges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe term “Navy” refers primarily to the revolver’s .36-caliber size and general configuration, following the period convention established by other medium-frame percussion revolvers. It does not indicate that this model was purchased under a documented U.S. Navy contract.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJohn Walch did not operate a large manufacturing facility of his own. Production of the twelve-shot revolver was contracted to the Union Knife Company of Naugatuck, Connecticut. Contemporary and collector sources generally estimate that only approximately 200 examples were completed, probably during the period from 1859 through the early Civil War years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIngenious Twelve-Shot Mechanism\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt first glance, the Walch resembles a conventional Colt-style single-action percussion revolver. Closer examination reveals that almost every important firing component is duplicated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe revolver has two hammers, two triggers, and two percussion nipples for each cylinder chamber. One nipple ignites the rear charge in the conventional manner, while the second is offset and connected to a channel that carries the percussion flash forward to the front load.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe right trigger is positioned ahead of the left trigger and is intended to release the hammer associated with the forward charge. The second trigger then releases the hammer for the rear charge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis arrangement permitted twelve shots to be carried in a revolver of relatively conventional size. It also made correct loading and operation considerably more complicated than with an ordinary cap-and-ball revolver.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Superimposed-Load System\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo load the revolver to its full intended capacity, a powder charge and projectile were seated deeply into each elongated chamber. A second powder charge and projectile were then loaded ahead of the first.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two loads had to be sealed and separated carefully so that the ignition of the front charge would not communicate with the rear charge. Contemporary descriptions indicate that specially designed projectiles and sealing materials were intended to help isolate the loads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCorrect ignition sequence was essential. The forward charge was intended to fire before the rear charge. A misfire, improperly sealed projectile, blocked ignition passage, or incorrect trigger sequence could potentially create a hazardous condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe complexity of loading, sealing, capping, cocking, and firing two charges within each chamber likely contributed to the revolver’s poor commercial reception. Although the system increased capacity dramatically, it did so at the cost of simplicity and confidence in operation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Walch therefore represents a fascinating example of a mechanically ingenious idea that did not ultimately displace the more straightforward percussion revolver.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerial or Assembly Number 20\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bottom of the grip is marked within the engraved decoration with what appears to be: \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e20\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e. The zero is unusually rounded and may have been formed using two curved impressions. The same number appears on the right side of the right hammer and on the front face of the cylinder. The repetition of the number on multiple fitted components strongly suggests that it served as the revolver’s serial or primary assembly number.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo corresponding number was observed on the grip frame beneath the stocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause very early firearms were sometimes marked inconsistently and because surviving reference information is limited, the identification of 20 as the serial number cannot be stated with absolute certainty. However, the matching markings across the grip, hammer, and cylinder provide compelling evidence that this is an extremely early numbered example.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEarly Unmarked Configuration\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo manufacturer’s name, patent marking, or barrel address could be located. This absence does not necessarily indicate that the markings were removed. Reference sources report that some very early Walch Navy revolvers were produced without the more commonly encountered barrel address.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe metal surfaces should still be inspected carefully under varying light and magnification, as extremely faint markings can sometimes become obscured by oxidation, cleaning, or finish loss. At present, however, this example is best described as an early unmarked variation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe barrel measures approximately 5 7\/8 inches, slightly shorter than the nominal six-inch length generally associated with this model. Similar minor barrel-length variations have been observed on surviving examples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcanthus-Engraved Grip Frame\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe grip frame is decorated with attractive acanthus-leaf engraving, giving the revolver a more refined appearance than a plain utilitarian sidearm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe serial number \u003cstrong\u003e20\u003c\/strong\u003e is located within this engraved area on the bottom of the grip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe decorative work remains visible despite age, handling, oxidation, and finish loss. It adds considerably to the revolver’s display appeal and provides an elegant contrast with the highly experimental mechanical design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod Replacement Grips\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wooden grips remain in very good overall condition but appear to be old replacements rather than the revolver’s original factory-fitted stocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey fit the frame relatively well and display the color, wear, and patina of considerable age. There are no major cracks, missing sections, or obvious modern repairs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe replacement grips do not bear visible matching numbers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough not original to the revolver, they are visually appropriate and appear to have been fitted during its earlier working or collecting history rather than recently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMetal Condition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe revolver has developed an attractive, untouched-looking brown and gray patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cylinder shows the heaviest exposure, with overall oxidation, scattered peppering, and areas of shallow pitting. This may indicate that the revolver was stored in a damp environment or left for a long period in a leather holster.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe frame displays less oxidation than the cylinder, while the barrel remains the cleanest of the major components. The varying condition of the surfaces gives the revolver a convincing aged appearance and does not suggest recent refinishing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe original finish is no longer present in any significant amount. The steel now displays mottled gray, brown, and dark coloration with scattered areas of roughness and old corrosion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite the oxidation, the revolver remains structurally complete and highly impressive in appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMechanical Condition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe action functions relatively well for such a complicated and scarce experimental revolver.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCocking the hammers rotates and indexes the cylinder, and the two hammers align reasonably well with their corresponding percussion nipples. The triggers release the hammers in the expected sequence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cylinder stop or locking system is extremely weak, worn, or possibly incomplete. The cylinder therefore does not lock as securely as it should.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause of the unusual double-hammer and double-trigger arrangement, the mechanism should be operated only slowly and gently. The revolver should not be repeatedly cocked or dry fired.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo attempt should be made to load or fire the revolver. Its superimposed-charge system is inherently complex, and the condition of its chambers, ignition passages, nipples, locks, and cylinder cannot be considered safe for use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBore Condition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bore is in very good condition for a percussion revolver of this age and scarcity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt retains a partially bright surface with crisp, clearly visible lands and grooves. There is scattered oxidation and discoloration, but no severe bore damage was observed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe corrosion appears more consistent with moisture exposure and imperfect cleaning than with extremely heavy firing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe strong rifling adds considerably to the revolver’s condition and collector appeal, even though it is sold strictly as a historical artifact and should never be fired.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCivil War Significance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Walch Navy revolver was developed immediately before the Civil War, during a period of intense experimentation in American repeating firearms. Designers were seeking ways to increase capacity and speed of fire while remaining limited by percussion ignition and loose powder-and-ball ammunition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWalch’s solution was among the most ambitious. By loading two charges into each chamber, he doubled the capacity of a conventional six-shot revolver without doubling the cylinder’s diameter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe concept was ingenious but introduced significant practical disadvantages. Loading was slow and complicated, the ignition system required additional nipples and channels, and reliable separation of the two charges was essential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese limitations prevented the design from achieving widespread acceptance, but they also make the Walch one of the most technically fascinating revolvers of the Civil War era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe approximately 200 large-frame examples were commercially produced rather than manufactured under a known military contract. Some may have been carried privately during the Civil War, but no specific wartime use or military association is documented for this revolver.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCollector Significance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWalch twelve-shot revolvers rank among the rarest and most recognizable American percussion handguns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTheir scarcity is matched by their extraordinary mechanical appearance. The elongated cylinder, double hammers, double triggers, paired nipples, engraved grip frame, and twelve-shot capacity make the design immediately compelling even to collectors already familiar with conventional Civil War revolvers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis example is especially desirable because of its extremely low matching number 20, scarce unmarked early configuration, attractive engraved grip frame, functional action, strong rifled bore, and honest untouched patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe period replacement grips and weak cylinder locking system are fully disclosed, but neither significantly reduces the historical importance or display value of such an exceptionally rare revolver.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the first original Walch twelve-shot Navy revolver we have had the opportunity to offer. With only approximately 200 believed to have been produced, many advanced Civil War and American arms collectors may never encounter another available example.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA remarkable early twelve-shot percussion revolver whose extremely low matching number, experimental superimposed-charge mechanism, and extraordinary rarity make it a centerpiece-level acquisition for an advanced collection of Civil War arms, American revolvers, or mechanical firearms innovations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003cbr\u003eManufacturer: Produced for John Walch Firearms Company, Reportedly by Union Knife Company\u003cbr\u003ePlace of Manufacture: Naugatuck, Connecticut\u003cbr\u003eModel: Walch Navy Twelve-Shot Revolver\u003cbr\u003eProbable Serial or Assembly Number: 20\u003cbr\u003ePeriod of Manufacture: Circa 1859–1862\u003cbr\u003eEstimated Production: Approximately 200\u003cbr\u003eCaliber: .36\u003cbr\u003eAmmunition Type: Loose Powder and Ball with Percussion Caps\u003cbr\u003eLoading System: Two Superimposed Charges per Chamber\u003cbr\u003eCylinder Capacity: Six Chambers\u003cbr\u003eMaximum Intended Capacity: Twelve Shots\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Hammers: Two\u003cbr\u003eNumber of Triggers: Two\u003cbr\u003ePercussion Nipples: Twelve, Two per Chamber\u003cbr\u003eBarrel Length: Approximately 5 7\/8\"\u003cbr\u003eNominal Barrel Length: Approximately 6\"\u003cbr\u003eOverall Length: Approximately 12\"\u003cbr\u003eAction: Single-Action Revolving Percussion Mechanism\u003cbr\u003eBarrel Markings: None Located\u003cbr\u003eGrip Frame Decoration: Acanthus-Leaf Engraving\u003cbr\u003eNumbered Components: Grip, Right Hammer and Cylinder Marked 20\u003cbr\u003eGrips: Period Wooden Replacements\u003cbr\u003eMechanical Condition: Action Functions and Indexes; Cylinder Locking System Very Weak, Worn or Incomplete\u003cbr\u003eBore Condition: Partly Bright with Crisp Lands and Grooves and Scattered Oxidation\u003cbr\u003eExterior Condition: Brown and Gray Patina with Heavier Cylinder Oxidation, Peppering and Areas of Pitting\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNOTE: 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.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Original Items","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44825546850373,"sku":"ONAC26BMA03","price":8995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1524\/1342\/files\/ONAC26BMA03.jpg?v=1774904713","url":"https:\/\/www.ima-usa.com\/products\/original-rare-u-s-civil-war-era-john-walch-patent-36-caliber-navy-12-shot-percussion-revolver-serial-no-20-only-approximately-200-made","provider":"International Military Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}