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One of the first production model Colt firearms profusely mounted in sterling silver, and among the most deluxe of Paterson Colt arms.
In addition the underside of the barrel is marked “~*Patent Arms M’g. Co. Paterson, N:J.-Colt’s Pt.*~”, and the matching partial serial number “77” is
marked on the wedge, rear of the cylinder, cylinder ring, and “177” is marked on the rear of the barrel lug. The barrel has an elevation adjustable
rear sight similar to those found on other Model 1839 rifles, such as Pliny Lawton’s rifle shown on page 214 of “The Paterson Colt Book” by Wilson
which is noted as “one of the few in the Model 1839 series built as a rifle.” The compass inscription is difficult to read and appears to say: “J. R.
Comer/bought/Tuesday Oct./the 9th 18[/]7”. The cheekpiece inlay also has a very faint inscription that appears to include “Tuesday” at the top
center, “Oct” to the right, and “18[?]7” on the right. The digit before the “7” is difficult to see on both inscriptions and appears to perhaps be a “7”
on the cheekpiece. J. R. Comer’s identity is not recorded, but it would appear he was seeking a powerful rifle to accompany him into the wilds
and must have been a man of some means. Samuel Colt received his patent on February 25, 1836, and is believed to have started producing the
Model 1839 series circa 1838-1841. John Ehlers completed more between 1841 and 1845.
CONDITION: Very good with attractively aged patina on the silver throughout, gray and brown patina on the iron along with mild pitting, the
name plate coming partially loose, and general mild overall wear. The stock has spliced repairs visible on the corners of the wrist, attractive figure,
and mild scratches and dings. The hammer and trigger function, and the cylinder mechanisms rotates when aimed upward. The hand spring
need work in order to work consistently. The writer is quite familiar with this extraordinary Colt Paterson Revolving Rifle having discovered it in
Florida approximately 30 years ago and can attest to its extreme rarity!
Provenance: The Richard Ellis Collection; The Charles Marx Collection.
Estimate: 95,000 - 160,000