Item:
ONSV23DCW69

Original U.S. Civil War Colt M1849 Pocket Percussion 5" Barrel Revolver with Cylinder Scene made in 1861 - Matching Serial 188226

Item 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 188226 can be found on the barrel, frame, cylinder, trigger guard, and grip frame. The loading rammer, cylinder arbor pin, and even the rear groove of the grip are marked with shortened number 8226, while the barrel wedge is marked 226. This makes this a very desirable "ALL MATCHING" example of the M1849 Pocket revolver, without any parts swapped out over the years.

The serial number indicates indicates the year of manufacture as 1861, right during the beginning of the U.S. Civil War, so it almost certainly saw service during the conflict. Even though this revolver has a serial number over 187000, it still has the earlier 5 round .31 caliber cylinder, instead of the later six. This was made during the changeover period, so it would appear that both were made concurrently for a time. It also features a 5" barrel, and is in nice tight condition with nice aged finish on the steel, showing some of the original finish. Additionally, over 75% of the original "Stagecoach Robbery" cylinder engraving can still be seen, which is usually completely worn away. The COLT'S PATENT marking is mostly intact as well. Often we see these with the markings completely removed from the cylinder, so this is a real treat!

The Colt New York single line address is still crisp and fully legible across the top of the octagonal barrel -

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

It also has 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, with a lovely color and very little damage or wear. They still have about 95% of the original "Piano Varnish" finish that was applied to these at the factory, with just some light wear on the bottom corners where usually seen.

The revolver functions just about flawlessly, with solid indexing and a firm cylinder lockup. We did not notice any of the usual finicky behavior we often see with revolvers of this age. The barrel to frame connection is solid, and the revolver breaks down correctly.

The bore is in very good condition, with a mostly bright finish showing clear lands and grooves. There is some oxidation and fouling scattered over the interior, but this is really a top class bore for a percussion revolver. The brass front sight is still present and in very good condition. All 5 cap nipple cones are intact and clear, though they do show some oxidation and powder burn to the exterior.

This is a very nice '49 Pocket dating from the early Civil War, a very nice acquisition for any collection. In wonderful condition and 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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  • This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): New Jersey

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