LOT 4253. RARE FRENCH MODEL 1858 NAVY REVOLVER

LOT 4253. RARE FRENCH MODEL 1858 NAVY REVOLVER

01-25971
Cal. 12mm pinfire
S# 21

This was the first cartridge handgun ever adopted by a major military power. Revolver was manufactured at St. Etienne and so marked on the right side of the frame. “MI 1858” designating the model is stamped on the right barrel housing, N21 stamped on cylinder and elsewhere is the serial number. This revolver is pictured & described on pages 78-79 of “SYSTEME LEFAUCHEUX”. Standard configuration of the Navy model, 12″ overall, 6.25″ barrel with model markings and inspector proofs. Among the scattered military markings there’s a small anchor stamped on butt cap. There were a few improvements made in 1862 and new designation began. Model 1858 revolvers still in service in 1873 were returned to Saint Etienne and altered to center fire. Only 1145 original model 1858 were made in total without improvements, so surviving original configuration M-1858s are rare. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: descriptive display sheet. Copies of pages from Curtis text where images used.

PROVENANCE: Chris Curtis estate collection.

STATUS: ANTIQUE