The Colt Army was the first "six-shot" revolver. 129,730 were sold by Colt to the US Government for use by troops in the Civil War. The first gov't order for the Army was in May, 1861; before that, 2,230 of the pistols had been sold, almost all to dealers south of the Mason-Dixon line. All of the gov't issue have inspection marks that these earlier pistols lack. My pistol, in excellent condition, lacks any military inspection marks and has a very low serial number (6260), indicating it was one of these "open market" early sales to the South. It is in beautiful condition, original finish, all parts with same serial #. I purchased it in New Orleans (estate sale to dealer) 40 years ago for $1,000.
Dimensions
8" barrel, 44 caliber
Acquired From:
Dealer or Gallery
Dear George, Thank you for choosing Mearto for your online appraisal. Based on images and available information, this item is: A Colt Army Model 1860 .44 caliber. The Colt Army Model 1860 is a cap & ball .44-caliber single-action revolver used during the American Civil War made by Colt's Manufacturing Company. It was used as a side arm by cavalry, infantry, artillery troops, and naval forces. The Colt 1860 Army uses the same size frame as the .36 caliber 1851 Navy revolver. The frame is relieved to allow the use of a rebated cylinder that enables the Army to be chambered in .44 caliber. Fine condition. Retail prices may vary
