copyright William Marion 2008
Black Powder Revolver
The Online Magazine and Resource for Black Powder Revolvers
June 2006 Edition
Page 4
Since the article in last month’s edition, we have received a number of requests to identify, estimate a price for, or trace the history of real period revolvers. We’re always happy to consult our resources but there are a couple things that make the research much easier. First and foremost is the serial number. If we know the make of a gun, the serial number can help trace when it was made, if it was purchased by the government (either Union or Confederate), and perhaps even to what unit it was issued. The serial numbers are located in various places, most often on the barrel, cylinder, frame or trigger guard. Some such as the New Army Remington have it hidden under the cylinder pin. Also important are any inscriptions on the barrel. This can help confirm the manufacture date and model or type. Believe it or not, the barrel inscription can make the difference between a $1,500 gun and a $15,000 gun.
We’ve been getting a number of requests to identify and estimate the value of antique revolvers. So many in fact, we thought it might be interesting to include a feature about some of the more interesting ones. See the April Edition for a sample of what you may find out. Just a few caveats, the first being that we are not
We’ve been getting a number of requests to identify and estimate the value of antique revolvers. So many in fact, we thought it might be interesting to include a feature about some of the more interesting ones. See the April Edition for a sample of what you may find out. Just a few caveats, the first being that we are not
certified appraisers and any value information is based on published prices or current on-line auctions. We will attempt as best we can to provide some history on the revolver. While we will try to respond to all inquiries, there are no guarantees we will be able to identify your submission. So with all the disclaimers out of the way, a couple tips to help made our job a bit easier.
The first step is to look for markings on the barrel, frame, trigger guard or grip strap. These can be the makers name, address, serial numbers, patent numbers or inspectors’ marks all of which can help identify and date a firearm. Other physical characteristics such as the shape of the barrel, trigger guard, frame and cylinder are helpful with positive identification. If possible photograph the gun, including all the above. If we find that your revolver is noteworthy, we’ll feature it in the next edition and send you a Black Powder Revolver T Shirt. Again if you’d like us to research your antique revolver, please send any or all of the above information.
The first step is to look for markings on the barrel, frame, trigger guard or grip strap. These can be the makers name, address, serial numbers, patent numbers or inspectors’ marks all of which can help identify and date a firearm. Other physical characteristics such as the shape of the barrel, trigger guard, frame and cylinder are helpful with positive identification. If possible photograph the gun, including all the above. If we find that your revolver is noteworthy, we’ll feature it in the next edition and send you a Black Powder Revolver T Shirt. Again if you’d like us to research your antique revolver, please send any or all of the above information.
Notice the detailed inscription on this 1858 Remington
Antique Research Notes
