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LOT 3182
Very Fine London Agency Cased, Engraved Colt No. 1 Derringer - Serial no. 4404, 41 RF cal., 2 1/2 inch irregular bbl., blue/silver finish, metal grips. Colt’s First Model Derringer was based on the design first manufactured by Moore Patent Firearms Co. and then the National Arms Co. before it was purchased by Colt in 1870. They were manufactured until 1890. Colt advertised this model as the “No. 1 National Deringer.” This example has flourishes of scroll engraving on the sides of the frame and behind the hammer and a floral pattern at the breech. The top of the barrel has the standard two-line address and “No1” model marking flanked by Maltese crosses. There are London proofs on the bottom of the barrel and “G” is on the bottom of the frame in front of the trigger. The matching serial number is on the butt and the bottom of the barrel. Includes an oak presentation case with Colt London Agency interior label, cleaning rod, key, Joseph A. Murphy brass collection tag, and some .41 RF cartridges.
CONDITION: Very fine, retains 80% plus of the original blue finish and 70% plus of the original silver finish with the balance a smooth grey patina, and the engraving and grip checkering remaining crisp. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine with some mild handling/storage wear.
Provenance: The Pete Holder Collection; The L.D. Eberhart Collection; The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection. Estimate: 6,500 - 9,500
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