Dave Taylor’s Civil War Antiques - Angelfire · tion muskets, not the M1861. This stock and...

12
13 Dave Taylor’s Civil War Antiques #046) - e Famed Sharps Rifle : M.1863 Sharps Rifle - A wonderful example of the most collectible percussion rifle ever made... e Sharps. Made famous by Berdan’s Sharpshooter, Buffalo Hunters, and of course Tom Selleck as Quigley Down Under. Serial number in the 130,000’ range. is is NRA “very good” with two inspector’s cartouches, and clear metal markings. e stock has a deep rich walnut color with good edges and fine luster. All steel parts are gun metal grey turning plum brown. e lock has clear maker stamps, and patent information. Barrel markings are legible but worn. is is totally original and genuine in all respects and is mechanically perfect. You can at- tend a dozen gun shows and you will not find a comparable example of a real Civil War Sharps priced this fairly... $2850.00 #047) - Inscribed Whitney M-1841 Mississippi Rigle w. Colt Improvement & Saber Bayonet: - is gun is the US model 1841 percussion rifle, and it has been modified by Colt to accept the pictured saber bayonet. It has a Colt rear sight (just like on the colt revolving rifle), and it has an attachable bayonet lug for accepting the saber bayonet. e ramrod is the one with the gun when I found it. It is the early style with brass tip. It has the threaded bottom end. But I believe it may be a replacement rod. e bore is .58 caliber. e bayonet lug is numbered 4780, and the barrel next to this is #3325. e bayonet is #6327 and has “1862” stamped on the blade. e blade is very long 25.5” to be exact. Lock is marked “E.WHITNEY/US” and “N. HAVEN/1854” and on the barrel we have “1854” and “V/P” and “US/SK” on left flat of the breech we see “2” and “C C” and “STEEL” the top of the butt plate also has the standard “US” marking. e left side of stock has two cartouches opposite the lock, and another one further towards the butt. e brass patch box has the beginnings of an engraving, it is engraved in jeweler executed script... “Presented to Comrade...” and then the inscription was never completed. It appears that the rifle must have been a trophy intended to be gifted to one of the members of a GAR post. Perhaps the recipient died prior to the pre- sentation. Perhaps the gun was intended as a prize but the prize was never won. It makes for intriguing speculation. A great Colt alteration complete with saber bayonet. Let’s just hope someone doesn’t take it upon hinself to “complete” the engraving. A wonderful Mississippi Rifle --- $2950.00 #048) - Model 1816 Flintlock Musket - Reconversion - is is a contract musket with a very good look. Lock is signed A. Waters and is dated 1826. Barrel date is 1827. All of the steel surfaces have a rich, smooth, age brown patina. e breech is stamped “US/ET/P?” and also “MS” and “1000”. is gun is an excellent and competent re-conversion back to flintlock. is is over- all VG condition with very nice wood with visible cartouche and good color. It just shows expected handling age. ere is a small chip in front of the lock from over 100 years ago. It has the proper button ram rod and is perfect for display with Texas Alamo, or Mexican War items. You could even use it as War of 1812 display or living history. is is a very handsome M-1816 with much appeal and priced very realistically... A good value at... $1150.00. #049) - Ultra Fine Model 1868 Trapdoor Spring field Rifle - is is a superb rifle in investment condition, NRA excellent grading... (one notch off of mint). . Like new bright finish on all parts except the lock, hammer, and breech block which retain their rich case hardened finish. Wood has fantastic sharp edges, and two vivid cartouches... extremely clear. Gun has serial number #4873 which would put this in the early production years. e lock has extra fine markings and is dated 1863. e breech block is dated 1869. Quite a fine piece of US firearm history. ese early Allin conversion Springfields are a wonderful value for the dollar. ey are rare, historic, and this one is in superb condition. $1650.00

Transcript of Dave Taylor’s Civil War Antiques - Angelfire · tion muskets, not the M1861. This stock and...

13

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#046) - The Famed Sharps Rifle : M.1863 Sharps Rifle - A wonderful example of the

most collectible percussion rifle ever made... The Sharps. Made famous by Berdan’s Sharpshooter, Buffalo Hunters, and of course Tom Selleck as Quigley Down Under.

Serial number in the 130,000’ range. This is NRA “very good” with two inspector’s cartouches, and clear metal markings. The stock has a deep rich walnut color with good edges and fine luster. All steel parts are

gun metal grey turning plum brown. The lock has clear maker stamps, and patent information. Barrel markings are legible but worn. This is totally original and genuine in all respects and is mechanically perfect. You can at-tend a dozen gun shows and you will not find a comparable example of a real Civil War Sharps priced this fairly... $2850.00

#047) - Inscribed Whitney M-1841 Mississippi Rigle w. Colt Improvement & Saber Bayonet: - This gun is the US model 1841 percussion rifle, and it has been modified by Colt to accept the pictured saber bayonet. It has a Colt rear sight (just like on the colt revolving rifle), and it has an attachable bayonet lug for accepting the saber bayonet. The ramrod is the one with the gun when I found it. It is the early style with brass tip. It has the threaded bottom end. But I believe it may be a replacement rod. The bore is .58 caliber. The bayonet lug is numbered 4780, and the barrel next to this is #3325. The bayonet is #6327 and has “1862” stamped on the blade. The blade is very long 25.5” to be exact. Lock is marked “E.WHITNEY/US” and “N. HAVEN/1854” and on the barrel we have “1854” and “V/P” and “US/SK” on left flat of the breech we see “2” and “C C” and “STEEL” the top of the butt plate also has the standard “US” marking. The left side of stock has two cartouches opposite the lock, and another one further towards the butt. The brass patch box has the beginnings of an engraving, it is engraved in jeweler executed script... “Presented to Comrade...” and then the inscription was never completed. It appears that the rifle must have been a trophy intended to be gifted to one of the members of a GAR post. Perhaps the recipient died prior to the pre-sentation. Perhaps the gun was intended as a prize but the prize was never won. It makes for intriguing speculation. A great Colt alteration complete with saber bayonet. Let’s just hope someone doesn’t take it upon hinself to “complete” the engraving. A wonderful Mississippi Rifle --- $2950.00

#048) - Model 1816 Flintlock Musket - Reconversion - This is a contract musket with a very good look. Lock is signed

A. Waters and is dated 1826. Barrel date is 1827. All of the steel surfaces have a rich, smooth, age brown patina. The breech is stamped “US/ET/P?” and also “MS” and “1000”. This gun is an excellent and competent re-conversion back to flintlock. This is over-all VG condition with very nice wood with visible cartouche and good color. It just shows expected handling age. There is a small chip in front of the lock from over 100 years ago. It has the proper button ram rod and is perfect for display with Texas Alamo, or Mexican War items. You could even use it as War of 1812 display or living history. This is a very handsome M-1816 with much appeal and priced very realistically... A good value at... $1150.00.

#049) - Ultra Fine Model 1868 Trapdoor Spring field Rifle - This is a superb rifle in investment condition, NRA excellent grading... (one notch off of mint). . Like new bright finish on all parts except the lock, hammer, and breech block which retain their rich case hardened finish. Wood has fantastic sharp edges, and two vivid cartouches... extremely clear. Gun has serial number #4873 which would put this in the early production years. The lock has extra fine markings and is dated 1863. The breech block is dated 1869. Quite a fine piece of US firearm history. These early Allin conversion Springfields are a wonderful value for the dollar. They are rare, historic, and this one is in superb condition. $1650.00

14

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#051) - Minty 1861 Contract Musket with S.N. & W.T.C. Lock:

This gun is superb but has the wrong lock in it. The has the SN&WTC Made For Mass lock whereas that lock is generally found in M1863 configura-

tion muskets, not the M1861. This stock and barrel is possibly from a Muir contract if I am not mistaken, or possibly a Savage. My memory is faulty, and my reference books not handy. The stock is superb with razor sharp edges and mint cartouche stamps of RPB and WHR on the left side. It also has individual letters WHR on the stock. This gun has the proper 40 Inch barrel with a great bright finish and excellent bore. The gun has matching 1863 dates on lock and barrel, but again the lock in this gun does not belong. Interestingly the barrel also is stamped “W.C. CO” showing that it was once used in Hollywood mov-ies, the marking being that of Western Costume Co. which supplied truckloads of original guns and military items to the various movie studios during the middle 1900’s. The barrel is bright steel, the stock is minty sharp with a small chip near the nose cap. The bore is superb. If you have a Muir or possibly Savage lock with 1863 date you will make this gun proper and worth $2500 in a heartbeat. All you need to do is swap out the locks .... Great deal at $1800.00

#050) - Model 1861 Mason Contract Musket - What we have here is a VG+ contract musket by “U.S./Wm. MASON/Taunton” and the lock is stamped 1863, barrel date is 1864. Mason was one of the gunsmiths in Mass. who produced under federal contract. He made about 30,000 of these Model 1861 Springfield pattern muskets. This has VG wood, the edges showing just light and expected wear, clear cartouche, very attractive color and tone. Barrel has clear V P and Eagle stamping as well as 1864 date. The bore is VG to fine. The steel is good grey steel color with strong markings and no pitting. The bolster still has a perfect clean-out screw. This is a 100% original, totally complete, and mechanically perfect contract musket, that just looks great. $1,650.00

#053) - Confederate Carbine – Made From 1851 Cadet Musket: The stories of Confederates altering muskets into carbines and musketoons are

legion and while it is certainly true that many such guns were CS altered, generally these stories are attached to sawed off junk muskets and are just so much “B.- S.” But this carbine/muske-toon is absolutely and unequivocally a real military alteration, and I believe CSA. It truly is a cavalry weapon. This gun started out as the US Springfield M-1851 Cadet Musket with the date of 1851. This date of 1851 is highly significant as the 300 made that year went to The Virginia Military Institute. This cadet musket has been wonderfully altered as follows. The left side of the stock opposite the lock has had a six inch long sling ring bar and ring added. This is ingenious and reminds me of the Austrian carbine sling ring bars. The rear end of the bar passes through the original escutcheon plate on the gun. The forward end of the bar is secured with a screw that passes all the way through the stock from the right side and threads into the forward end of the bar. It is a quality piece of craftsmanship. The lock is marked “Springfield 1851” but the eagle and US mark are gone, having been intentionally removed. The barrel has been shortened to exactly 22 inches and has the remains of a ramrod capture ring (like on a US cavalry musketoon) that was added when the gun was altered (see photo). It has a front sight very reminiscent of a Morse CS carbine. The rear sight is a fixed V notch sight as seen on numerous Confederate longarms, and similar to US Mississippi rifles. When this piece was discovered this piece was attic rusty, crusty, and had some stock issues. The bottom two inches of butt stock were rotting from sitting in a damp corner, and some serious cracks were in the forend. The previous owner did a marvelous job of repairing the wood. The nose cap appears to be German Silver or possibly poor brass. There are also two German silver ramrod thimbles affixed to the underside of the stock. Feel free to call or write for additional photos and data.This truly is an exciting southern military conversion with tons of appeal. $2,650.00

#052) - Norwich Contract 1861 Musket -

100% complete and original. Overall VG condition. Norwich lock dated 1863. We can’t make out the barrel date on this one, but

Norwich was making these in 1863 and 64 . All steel parts are solid gun metal grey. The wood shows use but no abuse with some nicks and dings on the underside near the ramrod channel. The metal has some light salt and pepper pitting, and a little age staining here and there. There is one ancient wood repair near the back barrel band. Thee is one clear cartouche, and underneath the stock in front of the trigger guard, the initials “WR” are carved . A VG gun that assuredly saw action. $1575.00

15

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#056) - Scarce Remington Contract 3-Band Spring field Pattern 1863 Musket - Remington is believed to be one of only two makers to produce muskets that exactly followed the model 1863 Springfield specs. The other is the S Norris & WT Clements Made for Massachu-setts musket. This Remington contract is a rare piece. The gun is in VG/Fine condition and has matching 1865 dates on the lock and barrel. The steel parts are all crisp and gun metal grey in color. This has the last pattern Springfield rear sight with one leaf and a peep hole in the center of the leaf. The stock has sharp edges, normal handling dings, and a clear cartouche of “OWA” as well as a single letter “A”. A small piece of wood was long ago chipped out behind the ham-mer and was reattached using the same piece of wood. This was done long ago and is not visible unless you look very closely. The rifle sling shown in the picture is not included. It is an Indian War sling made in the 1870’s by sewing two CW rifle slings together. The photographer took the pictures before the sling was removed. This is tight, solid, totally original and complete, and very scarce It is one of the scarcest of CW contracts to acquire $2,250.00

#055) - Extra Fine Condition P.S. Justice Rifled Musket - One of about 2000 made by this Philadelphia maker in 1861. This is the Type 3 Justice, which has the patchbox, double bend trigger guard, and patchbox. This gun also features a long range rear sight. This example is top end attractive. The barrel is a lustrous lacquer brown color, smooth, and crisply marked “P H Justice Phila.”. The lock is likewise superb with crisp markings and no rust or pitting. The rifled bore is excellent. The stock is fine+ condition. The brass furniture is attractive and uncleaned. This gun is in better than fine condition, it is one of the scarcer Civil War long arms to find, and it is a very good value at... $2,275.00

#054) - Model 1866 Allin Conversion - Second model Allin conversion in NRA VG++ untouched attic plum musket. Totally original, complete, and mechanically perfect. Metal is plum and smooth. Stock has great edges with quite a few nicks and dings. There is an “H” cared in the stock. Has 1864 Springfield lock and 1861 style swelled ramrod. Cartouches visible. An early example of the Allin trapdoor design that was the forerunner of the 45/70s. A tight solid second model Allin priced LOW ... $775.00

#057) - Identified, Soldier Carved, Patchbox Model 1855 Spring field Per-

cussion Musket - This is the type-2 Springfield model 1855 distinguished by

the short range rear sight and the iron patch box in the butt stock. It has the brass nose cap which is a transitional carryover from the type-1 musket. As with all the 1855 muskets and rifles this has the famed Maynard tape primer in the lock. The lock is dated 1860, and the barrel has the V P and Eagle, but the date is not visible any more. The rear sight is the proper 1855-61 early short range sight with back step at the rear. The front sight has been filed down to a nib ... probably by a shooter. The barrel shows some pitting near the breech, but the rest is smooth and bright. What makes this gun so spectacular is the wonderful period carving on the stock opposite the lock. It reads “Nason Jr. Co. B 5th Reg. M.V.M” . This man is George Warren Nason, Jr. a Franklin Mass. man who enlisted in 1861 as a private. Civil War Data has a nice CDV showing George with a long beard and wide brimmed hat. He spent time with the Mass 5th and 23rd infantry, and served until 9/39/1864. While in service with the 5th Regt, he was one of the two men wounded at Bull Run in that Regt. Refusing to give up, he enlisted with the 23rd infantry and continued the fight until September ‘64. This is a superb piece of Civil War history. These guns bearing historical carving have always been highly sought and desirable and this one has truly superb carving. We know this gun saw service at 1st Bull Run with Nason. The question of whether Nason was allowed to keep this gun during his second enlistment or whether the musket was issued to someone else is a mystery. A great piece of history... $4500.00

16

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#058) - Confederate Cook & Brother Confederate Infantry Rifle - One of the most honest and complete examples of the Confederate Cook rifle currently on the market. This is absolutely wonderful and complete in all respects, and this is the elusive 2-band infantry rifle which is the rarest of all the Cook patterns. The wood rates a “fine+” condition grade with superb edges, outstanding color, and rich luster. This is truly one of the finest stocks I have seen on any Confederate long arm. The steel is uniformly age brown with areas of pitting near the breech and good markings. The lock markings are clearly visible “Cook & Brother Athens GA 1864 4119” The Confederate flag motif on the locks of these Cook rifles is arguably the reason they are so sought by collectors. The fact that they are so darn scarce is another important element. The barrel markings are worn but still visible including the date of 1864.. The lock screws on the left side of the stock bear matching serial numbers stamped into the heads. The brass furniture has a pleasing ochre color patina. Both sling swivels are intact. The brass and steel tip ramrod is present. This is a top end Cook Rifle the likes of which you will be hard pressed to find on the market today. You can find the common Richmond rifles and the common Fayetteville rifles at most any show you choose to attend, and you will see them priced as high as this Cook. But you will look long and hard to find a Cook & Brother 2-band infantry rifle for sale anywhere... and I wager you will not find one at this price. $19,750.00

#060) - Near Mint Spring field model 1884 Trapdoor Rifle -

This is a near mint 45/70 trapdoor with the Buffington rear sight that allows the shooter to make the critical windage, and elevation adjust-

ments needed for supreme accuracy. This 1884 model was also designed to handle a newer more powerful 500 grain bullet. This gun has virtually all the blue finish, rich case color on the block and near new wood with vivid cartouche. The inspector’s car-touche is dated 1889. The gun rates NRA’s second highest grade... “ Excellent “ - Near Mint... Top notch in all respects, . $1,750.00

#061) - Peabody Rifle Connecticut Contract - This was the so called “Spanish Model” and was one of the 2000 contracted by Connecticut in 1871-72. We know this by the stamp on the sling swivel plate on the butt which reads “CONN 43” other markings are on the receiver “PEABODY’S PATENT / JULY 22, 1862 / MAN’F’D BY /PROVI-DENCE TOOL CO. / PROV. R.I.” This is a great full stock rifle with a simple lever action. This example has the usual dents and dings in the wood, with a very small chip missing off of the butt near the buttplate. And I noticed some faint markings on the underside of the stock just fore of the breech that looks like “?10079?” don’t know what this means for sure. The gun has an enfield style ramrod, and the front sight on the 33” barrel doubles as a bayonet lug. Dark patina on the barrel with a touch of pitting between the rear barrel band and the rear sight. $895.00

17

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#063) - 5th Model Burnside Carbine VG - This is the model that many cavalry regiments were armed with during the war. This is the standard Burnside that was produced in the highest quantity. All original and complete. Mechanically perfect. The top of the frame is stamped “Burnside’s Patent/March 25th, 1856” and the lockplate is marked “Burnside Rifle Co. / Providence=R.I.” The gun has a nice attic brown patina. Minor wood scars in a few places, but they don’t detract from this beauty. This one goes for $1395.00

#064) - Scarce First Model Lindner Carbine - Made in Manchester, NH, this is a 58 caliber, breech loading carbine. These guns were known to have gone to the 8th West Vir-

ginia and the 1st Michigan Cavalry regiments during the Civil War. This a rare 1st Model made with the proper unmarked lock, and manufacturing information on top of the breech block. Less than 1000 were so produced. This gun is 100% complete and mechanically perfect. There is an inconsequential rectangular wood repair on the foremost section of the right side of the stock, and is pictured above. Near the butt plate on the wood on top of the comb, there is an inspectors cartouche, and also what appears to be a “2”. There are a couple small stress cracks in the wood opposite the lock. Overall smooth metal with no pitting, and a nice aged grey color. The stock edges are good and show expected handling age and rounding. These Lindner’s are among the scarcest of Union Army weapons and have always been so. This is a solid, representative example guaranteed to please... $3975.00

#065) - Fine Second Model Maynard Carbine - Extra fine Maynard Carbine single

shot 50 caliber percussion breech loader. This gun has 95% rich factory blue finish on the barrel, and 50% rich smoky grey case

color on the frame. The wood is superb with two strong cartouches, sharp edges, and the ab-solute best color. Serial number 22213. These guns are known to have been issued to the 9th and 11th Indiana,

and also the 11th Tenn US Cavalry regiments. The bore is shiny new. This superb piece is priced as fairly as I can get it at… $1,975.00

#062) - Extra Nice Cavalry Model Smith Carbine - Overall near fine condition. Totally original and complete. Barrel retains 70% factory blue. Frame has hints of case color, balance grey. Stock is VG+ with small repair where a small chip of wood popped out behind the frame and this same piece of original wood was glued back in place. This is a minor blemish mentioned for accuracy’s sake. Inspector’s initials “HJ” present at left wrist of stock. . Has the standard

Smith’s 1857 patent information and the Mass Arms manufactur-ing data. This is a great Smith for the money. $1595.00

18

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#066) - Starr Cavalry Carbine. Condition is NRA VG++ Metal shows a nice gray-brown pati-na over all. The wood is a rich brown color and fits nicely with the metal parts. There are three faint inspectors initials on the left side of the receiver, “H G S” and one on the butt plate “ ”. The bore has nice deep rifling. There is no visible cartouche. Very Solid, totally original and complete. Mechanically perfect. This is a carbine that has been well cared for but unquestionably saw service in the saddle with one of Lincoln’s cavalrymen. Very solid and very handsome. $1895.00

#067) - Scarce USN “Mule Ear” Jenks Carbine - Manufactured by N. P. Ames this is a sleek looking carbine with its browned barrel and full walnut stock. Only 4250 of these were made between 1843-46. Marked on the lock plate “N.P. AMES/SPRINGFIELD/MASS” and also “W JENKS” the markings on the breech are deep “W.JENKS” and “USN/RP/P/1845”. This example has the standard oval loading aperture. The barrel on this carbine has generous amounts of thinned factory brown finish mixed with even patina. The bore

has strong rifling. The wood is very nice with wonderful color and hand rubbed luster. There are only a couple minor storage dings. The lock has generous traces of case color. This gun is near “fine” condition. If you want to own the only mule-ear gun officially accepted by the U.S. armed forces, this is the carbine for you. You can check my friendly competitors and you will love my price of…. $2,250.00

#068) - M1860 Spencer Carbine w/ Spring field Armory Upgrade. A wonderful antique gun that saw service in the Civil War and also the In-dian Campaigns. This is the Springfield alteration of the Civil War carbine. Made in 1864 and upgraded circa 1867 - 1874 by lining the bore and rifling with 3 grooves and also rounding the ejection port on the frame. Otherwise exactly as issued during the Civil War... approximately 11,000 Spencers so altered. Complete and original. The outline of the cartouche is present. There are a few minor dings and bumps, and there is tiny 2 -3” small crack in the rear of the stock. This one fought Johnny Reb and also rode in the saddle of the western Indian fighters as well. A very pleasing and affordable carbine at $1,975.00

#069) - Fine Model 1863 Sharps Cavalry Carbine Custer Period Re-Issue: A near fine condition M1863 Civil War Sharps carbine converted to 52/70 or more correctly 50/70 metallic cartridge. Barrel exhibits generous traces of factory blue mixed with rich aged plum brown patina. The frame and lock have 60% and 40% respectively, beautiful factory case color. The wood is likewise fine with sharp edges and vivid “DFC” banner cartouche. There are few handling and storage dings which are to be expected… nothing bad. The bore is excellent with original 6 groove rifling, the gun is 100% original and mechanically perfect, in short a re-ally fine and solid example of the famed Sharps US Cavalry carbine. In this era where we see average used guns bringing 1500 to 2000 at auction PLUS the absurd 20% buyers premiums… this one is a breath of fresh air… a great gun with good finish for … $1875.00

19

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#071) - Bright Blue Finish - Near Mint German Made - Engraved Adams Patent Percussion Revolver -

Made in Stuttgart by W. Pfeufer and so marked on the top of the barrel. This gun just drips with the original factory blue, retaining 95+% of the rich lustrous bluing. This is the 1851 Adams Patent, which

was a very successful and often copied design, this one being a licensed and authorized brevet made in Stuttgart. This is 100% original and mechanically perfect. Six shot double action revolver and about .41 cal. The receiver is

h e a v - ily engraved and looks spectacular with the blue finish. Finely checkered grips with a pleasant varnish finish. The aesthetics of this gun are top shelf, the overall appeal is likewise. Any Colt in this condition would approach ten thousand dollars in price. This is wonderful, it just fits well in your hand, and would look great in a display of Confederate officer’s effects. Pricing this one to move at $2,250.00

#070) - Extra Nice Model 1851 Colt Navy - .A much nicer than example than most we find. Very

crisp and very tight. This 36 Cal revolver is 100% original and complete, and mechanically perfect with all matching numbers, 144661.

Cylinder scene is 70% and very visible, action works great, super clear barrel legend also. All the edges are sharp, the screws are super--- not buggared at all. The grips are excellent. This is a really nice gun here, and very attractive. If you are looking for a much better than average, yet still very affordable Colt Navy... this one is just the ticket at ..... $1875.00

#073) - Remington New Model Army - This is the standard issue cavalryman’s Remington revolver as issued in 1863. This is in NRA VG

condition and has all original parts, but each bears a different serial number and the barrel has been smooth bored ! There are two small holes drilled in the butt strap reason unknown. Some parts are stamped with sub

inspector’s marks of “H, P, F, D, J, or A” All the metal surfaces are a uniform light tan age patina, the grips are VG to fine condition, the action is crisp, and despite the various serial numbers these parts have been together for a hundred years or more. My guess with the smooth bore is that this may have been used for trick shooting in a Wild West Show so the shooter could easily break thrown targets in the air. A very handsome, totally functional, and very affordable Civil War Remington. 795.00

#072) - Extremely Scarce Martially Marked Remington Beals Army Revolver : One of the scarcest of the Civil War handguns is this ear-

ly Remington Beals 44 caliber army revolver. There were only a couple thousand manufactured and most of those went to the south prior to April 1861.

This gun is 100% original and complete and mechanically perfect. The grips show the faint remnants of a cartouche and the gun has sub inspector’s marks of “C” and tiny “wc” stamped in various

locations (barrel, frame, rammer, trigger guard, cylinder). The metal surfaces are all smooth and have been gently toned to a light plum patina, very attractive. The front sight is a steel pinched front sight as opposed to the silver cone frequently seen. The barrel legend is clear on the top line with the Beals 1858 patent information, the bottom

line of the legend is somewhat worn. Serial number 1539 places this in the known martially marked range. Overall Very Good condition and one of the key Civil War revolvers for any collection. Far rarer than many Confederate firearms... and these Beals armies are consid-ered a secondary Confederate sidearm. Very nice example... $3,250.00

#074) - 41 Cal.Butter-field Army Revolver - One of the scarcest and

most sought of all Civil War firearms and one of the most unusual looking. A pellet primed revolver

made 1861-62. Made on contract for the 5th NY Cavalry. A contract for 2280 Butterfield revolvers was given to Jesse Butterfield of Phila PA in the fall of 1861.

Due to a misunderstanding about the contract terms, production was stopped after approx. 640 revolvers were made. The US Govt. did not accept delivery of nor pay for these revolvers. Some were

privately purchased by members of the 5th NY. This one falls in the middle of the production run with it’s match-ing* 444 serial numbers (*cylinder number is not visible being on the rear and covered by the frame. This cylinder bears number 568 and has been with this gun since the war.). Gun is in Fine condition and is 100% original and complete. The brass frame has a lovely undisturbed age patina toned like an old Lincoln penny. The grips are excellent and numbered to match the gun. There is a tiny chip repaired in the butt of the grip but I defy you to find it. The frame has full firm and patent markings. The barrel and cylinder are a very attractive sepia-grey patina. This is a top notch specimen of a highly appealing and very scarce Civil War revolver. This is a great gun for any gun collector, cavalry collector, NY historical collector, and anyone of us who appreciate the rare and unusual. $4750.00

20

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#075) - Extra Nice Martial Savage Navy Revolver - Such an un-mistakable design with the two finger trigger device. Pull the bottom ring to cock the gun and advance the cylinder. Pull the top trigger to fire. Really an inge-

nious design. This gun was sold to both the army and navy during the early 1860’s and about 12000 were purchased by the government. This gun has faint cartouches on both grips, some finish in protected areas, and a pretty plum patina. The framestrap has the standard and deep markings “Savage R.F.A. Co. Middletown. CT / H. S. North patented June 17 1856 / January 18 1859 May 15 1860” Overall condition is VG to near “fine”, 100% complete and original. Me-chanically perfect. These revolvers are scarce in any shape and to find a martial example in this condition is getting very difficult. A

real dandy example.... $2600.00

#076) - Model 1842 Martial Percussion pistol. The classic single shot military pistol. Overall good to very good with nice uniform attic brown patina on all the steel p a r t s , gentle yellow color on the brass, and rich rubbed walnut stock. Stamped at the rear of the lock is “Midd tn/ Con/ 1851”. Stamped in the lock in front of the

hammer is “U.S./ H. Aston & Co.”. The only major wart is a narrow crack in the stock about 3” long from the rear lock screw running back, not visible when displayed, and not significant. All original except that the ramrod is a replacement. To cock the piece we have to push the trigger foreword to facilitate the sear engaging. Super display item --- you can tune it up a little if you like. A very handsome antique and it is hard to find any martial pistol at this price $675.00

#077) - Fine Condition 18th Century English Flintlock - This great little flintlock has a 4 1/4 inch barrel, exquisite detail, and very attractive wood. This pistol is 100% complete including the flared dark wood ramrod. The lock is marked by the maker “B & M Redfern” and according to our research , Bartholomew and Matthew Redfern were in Temple Row Birmingham 1799-1803. This is wonderful 200 year old gun. $1450.00

#078) - Charming 1840s Boston Signed Double Barrel Percussion Pistol - Signed on the barrels is “Hapgood Boston” the Hapgood is somewhat hard to read as it is mixed with some surface pits in the steel. This gun has a double trigger set-

up with two hammers. The barrels are 4” long with smooth bores. The ramrod is steel with brass tip, it has an ingenious capture pivot design that allows the rod to go into either barrel, while still being held in place

by the capture ring. The grips are fine and have nice checkering, and a rear silver escutcheon plate. The bottom of the barrels have 4 English proof marks.

Overall length of this pistol is 8.5 inches. My re-search shows J. Hapgood worked from 1826 to 1847 in Shrewsbury and then in Boston as well. Both operations closed in 1864. Very interesting, very handsome, very afford-able…. $495.00

21

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#079) - Cased 4” Colt Pocket Revolver with Accessories - This pistol rates an NRA “Fine” grade with an outstanding cylinder scene

depicting the standard Colt stage coach hold-up scene where the bad guys with long arms are being beaten back by the good guy with the large handgun . This

revolver with the four inch barrel is housed in its original Colt factory box with velvet lined partitions. The barrel has 80% of the original blue finish, 100% cylinder scene w/ 40% cylinder blue, and 35% smoky case color on the frame and rammer. All metal markings are crisp and vivid. The safety pins on the back of the cylinder are near perfect. It has all matching serial numbers which date the gun to 1852, and excellent varnished grips with sharp edges. The gun has strong rifling, and the trigger guard has 70% silver while the backstrap has about 35% of the silver plate remaining. Also present in the box are the Colt’s Patent marked double cavity mold (condition good to VG with no finish and some surface rust) Also present is an attractive eagle motif copper powder flask (condition about fine). Also present is a cap tin embossed on the lid “ELEY LONDON” . There are also a number of conical lead bullets present. This is housed in the original velvet lined mahogany box in VG condition. It has the proper score marks at the hinge inlets and proper steel screws. There are a couple razor thin stress separations in the lid of the box of no consequence. A really fine REAL cased Colt M1849 Pocket Revolver. These cased guns really are elegant and classy… $4,500.00

#080) - Colt Navy- Navy Con-version Revolver – Here is one damn scarce gun. It is a USN martial M1851 Colt Navy Revolver made for the US Navy prior to the Civil War, then it was issued and used during the Civil War, and fi-

nally it was converted to 38 caliber centerfire metallic cartridge after the war and reissued to the Navy. There aren’t but a handful of these birds that have survived. First, the Colt Navy-Navy is one of the scarcest of all Colt revolvers. Then, the limited number of conversions of these already scarce guns is even smaller. This is the Colt factory conversion of the model 1851 Navy. These 38 cal. guns were heavily marked for the Navy, with “U.S.N” on the butt, and “R.W.M. anchor” underneath the barrel. This gun has the steel backstrap, and grey steel patina on all the parts. The walnut grips are very good showing only gentle age and handling. All serial numbers match, the gun is 100% original and complete, all markings are strong and legible, it is mechanically perfect. This is one of the key pieces for the Colt and martial handgun collector. I haven’t seen another for sale in quite a while…. $4500.00

#081) - Ca. 1790 - 1800 “Musket Bore” English Officer’s Flintlock Pistol – This is a wonderful specimen of the pre 1812 British officer’s side arm. These are re-ferred to as “musket bore” pistols because they are 72 caliber the same as the bore of the English infantryman’s shoulder weapon. Hence an officer carrying one

of these pistols needed not carry his own separate caliber mold and bullets. He could use the standard

government supplied musket cartridges. Pretty smart eh?!? This magnificent gun is signed “ Edwards” and I do not know if he was English or Irish. Perhaps one of you knows the answer. The gun is about 11”

long overall. The condition is extremely fine with rich smoky patina, hints of original finish on the lock, and no rust, no pitting, no damage whatsoever. The condition is very, very good. This is 100% original and complete and mechanically perfect, with the exception of the ramrod which I believe is a replacement. A truly handsome and strik-ing antique in top shelf condition. Perfect to display with War of 1812 or Napoleonic militaria or with a collection of likewise interesting antique arms. What a wonderful value for the money. $1,600.00

22

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#082) - Remington - Beals Navy Revolver – The early Civil War Remington 36 caliber Navy made in 1861 and 1862. Total quantity 14,500. This speci-

men NRA “very good” save for a small chip out of the spur on the hammer (smoothed now) … otherwise all com-plete and very nice. serial #11483 Wood Grips are Fine, metal is smooth gun metal grey with good markings. Front sight is early silver cone style. This gun is 100% complete and mechanically perfect. $1450.00

#084) - Starr Arms Co. Single Action Army - NRA VG++, the Starr single action was the third most purchased revolver during the

Civil War numbering about 25,000. This one is 100% original, complete and mechanically perfect. All metal surfaces are an even steel gray patina. There is a slightly visible cartouche on the left

side of the grip. Though more single actions were made than double actions, the single action is far more desirable on today’s collector market. The serial number 30,143 falls into the general range of guns issued to the

7th Mich Cavalry, but the number does not hit exactly in the records. This is a good solid Starr that you can be proud to display in your Civil War collection or gun room. $1595.00

#083) - Smith & Wesson No. 2 Army Civil War Revolver - The classic S&W sidearm of the Civil War. Six shot, .32 cal. rimfire. NRA VG and 100% complete and mechanically correct. This gun has a touch of finish in the protected areas, and solid grips with most of the varnish. Steel surfaces are mostly smooth with only the faintest hints of light pitting here and there, and a pleasing dark brown patina over all. This shows use, age, and handling, but overall VG and very nice. Has war date serial number… $595.00

#085) - Extra Fine Mass. Arms Belt Revolver – One of the BEST I’ve Seen! Only about 1000 of

these guns were made in the 1850’s and of those 200 were known to have been sold to John Brown in 1857. Our

specimen here is extra special as the condition is stellar with most of the original finish including nearly all the blue and nearly all the case color. You can’t find these guns with case color… this is a wonderful find. The case color mixed with the factory engraving make this a rich piece of antiquity. It has the 4 inch barrel, is a .31 Caliber 6 shot revolver with the Maynard priming system. The gun is profusely engraved on the lock and hammer. The primer door has a beautiful engraved eagle with shield. This is quite a spectacular revolver. The little button that holds the primer door closed is gone, but that is the only minor defect. This Mass Arms gun is a SCREAMER… one of the best I’ve seen, drip-ping in blue, dripping in case color. Not a little tiny pocket pistol, this is the belt revolver…. $3400.00

23

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#088) - Bacon Mfg. Pocket Revolver - This gun has all matching serial #’s of 121, indicating this gun was likely made in the late 1850’s.

There are a few known variations on this revolver, and ours here has the 5 inch round barrel and a fluted cylinder, 31 caliber rifled barrel and 5 shot cylinder. These bear a strong resemblance to some

early Manhattan revolvers being due to the fact that Bacon was an ex-employee at Manhattan. This gun has an even plum brown patina, good firm markings on the barrel, and good grips. There are two small chips on the right grip. This gun cocks crisply but does not index every time. I have taken the side plate off and see that the hand and cylinder stop are present, but there must be a spring gone. The cylinder indexes sometimes. I will leave this for you to fix. $495.00

#089) - Very Nice Model 1851 Colt Navy Revolver: A very good mid war Colt just as carried by thousands of cavalryman in both the Union and Con-federate cavalries. All the serial numbers match – 158830 - including the wedge, and there is a nice strong firm marking on the barrel. The cylinder retains about 30% of the scene, and there is some light scoring at the rear of the cylinder. The Colt’s Patent frame marking is crisp. The metal is uniformly plum brown in color. There is no factory finish but the patina is very attractive. This is 100% original and complete except for the mainspring which was missing when I found this and I had helper Tom replace it. The grips are very good but there is a small chip at the toe of the left grip. Overall a Very Good Colt Navy which is perfect to display with cavalry or officers’ effects from either side. $1375.00

#086) - Extra Fine 6 Inch Colt Pocket Revolver - A really super long barrel ‘49 Pocket. This piece has matched serial numbers 158,775. It is

1 0 0 % original and complete. It is mechanically perfect. The barrel retains 60% to 70% factory blue mixed with some spots of surface rust. The cylinder has 100% scene with

hints of blue finish and one thumb spot of brown rust. The frame has 60% or more nice bright factory case color. The rammer has 20% case and some spots of light rust. The hammer is smoky grey. The grips are excellent retaining 90% original factory varnish. The trigger guard and back strap have a

beautiful undisturbed brown mustard patina and appear to have never been plated. The serial number 158775 dates this gun to the 1858 production run. A stunning gun, and even more desirable with the long six inch barrel... $1,950.00

#087) - Very Rare Colt Pocket Con-version to 32 Caliber Metallic Cartridge - This is a great cowboy gun, with a gunsmith conver-sion to 32 rimfire caliber. This gun is VG to Fine condition. It has all matching serial numbers 53789, and a nice deep early 2 line New York barrel address (with brackets). The barrel, frame, and cylinder have 70% or more smoky blue finish original at the time of con-version. The back strap, and trigger guard have over 90% silver platting, and

the grips are excellent. This Colt pocket has a 5 inch barrel, and front cone sight. Cylinder scene is about 30%. Colt did not make conversions of the 49 Pocket revolvers and custom gunsmith examples are very rare. This is a magnificent Cow-boy Frontier revolver with strong condition and much appeal. $895.00

24

Dave Taylor ’s Civ i l War Ant iques

#090) - Rare Ohio Marked US M1842 Percussion Pistol: I have owned many dozens of these ’42 pistols but this is the first Ohio marked example I have owned, and

that is saying a lot since I have been collecting for nearly 40 years. I have seen two others in friends’ collections but this is the first I have personally owned. The word OHIO is stamped

clearly into the neck of the stock. Interestingly this OHIO mark is significantly smaller than the OHIO stamp we find on the numerous shoulder weapons marked by the buckeye state. The Lock is marked “US I.N. Johnson / Middtn Conn 1853”, there is some wear on the JOHNSON area. The barrel is marked “US/S.K/P 1853” and “STEEL”. There are two crisp cartouches in the wood as well as the OHIO mark. There are a few “K” proof marks on the brass. The stock has strong edges and great cartouches. The steel has been lightly polished and is very attractive. Much better than most we see. Darn rare with the OHIO marking. $1,150.00

#091) - US1842 Pistol 1851 dated H. Aston &

CO – A very attractive and very representative example of this famous old pistol. This war horse is very handsome with rich deep brown patina on all

the steel parts, and handsome ochre patina on the brass. The wood looks like a nice piece of antique furniture. This is all original except for a properly replaced ramrod and swivel. Signed “U.S/H.ASTON&CO” and also “MIDDtn/CONN/1851”. The gun shows wear and use but no damage or abuse. The cartouches are pretty much worn off the stock and there is a fine and ancient hairline stress crack on the left side of the lock opposite the lock. The barrel markings are worn with inspector’s initials visible through heavy brown patina. The nipple is somewhat battered but still ok. A good solid example and quite affordable. $595.00

#092) - Near Mint Starr Double Action Army Revolver - A superb example of the Starr. Barrel and frame have 90+% brilliant

factory blue. The cylinder has some blue with the lions share having fallen off the cylinder. The hammer and rammer have nearly all the vivid case color still bursting

forth. A very bright gun with just some areas where the finish fell off the cylinder. There is some gentle wear on the back strap and trigger guard. Serial number is 5520 which is quite low considering they were about 23,000 made. The gun is a 6 shot 44 caliber revolver, and is technically a self cocking revolver though some call it a “double action”. This is excellent condition with most of the factory finish. The grips are about mint with mint cartouches. Overall this gun has a ton of blue, and lots of case color. $3,500.00

#093) - English Tower Percussion Single Shot Pistol - This pistol has a 9 inch barrel, walnut stock, simple lines, and brass escutcheon and trigger guard. The bore is large being 60-something caliber. Overall length 15.5 inches. The ramrod is a simple wood replacement. The barrel is stamped near the bolster with two London proof marks. The lock is marked with a crown in front of the hammer, and “TOWER” behind the hammer. Overall VG++ condition with a tiny inconsequential stress line in the wood near the escutcheon plate opposite the lock. This is a sleek looking pistol, 150+ years old, all original, mechanically perfect, and damn cheap priced at $495.00