This is an excellent example of a cased 1849 Pocket London manufactured in the last year of production,1856. More desirable 6" barrel identical in configuration to the standard 1849 having a higher quality of finish. The top barrel flat is marked " -{ADDRESS COL. COLT. / LONDON}-"  inside fancy brackets, "COLTS / PATENT" on the left side of the frame and the cylinder is roll engraved with the stagecoach holdup scene. The left side of the barrel lug is proof marked with "Crown / GP" and "Crown / V" stamps and the same proof marks alternate on the cylinder between the nipples. The butt is inscribed JOHN HUNTER in block letters. Loading slot cut on the right side. The complete serial number 9618 is marked on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, cylinder, loading lever and back strap. Blued barrel and casehardened frame and loading lever. The grip strap and trigger guard are the small variation blued steel. The left trigger bow is marked "L". Finished with a smooth one-piece walnut grip. 70% original blue finish remains on the barrel thinning along high points and edges the balance is now a mottled grey patina exhibiting some over all handling marks and surface scratches with a small patch of isolated pinprick pitting on the left of the barrel lug. The loading lever, frame, cylinder and hammer are now an even satin grey patina displaying some overall handling marks and dings. The grip strap is now a mottled grey patina. The grips are fine showing only some minor pressure marks. According to the seller from the Will Hoffeld Collection, purchased from Lyle Finley in 1953.
The revolver is in an English agent's oak casing with GEORGE GIBBS / Gun & Rifle / manufacturer / Bristol  trade label, correct flask, bullet mold and cap tin.
A highly desirable set in very fine condition    $8,500.

Støckel: George Gibbs, circa 1860 in Bristol, 29 Conn St. He acquires in 1865 the patent rights to the METFORD rifling.

to homepage