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LOT 3115
Attractive and Scarce London Agency Cased
Pair of Factory Engraved Silver Plated Colt
No. 1 Derringers -A) Colt No. 1 Derringer -
Serial no. 2853, 41 RF cal., 2 1/2 inch flat
topped round bbl., blue/silver finish, metal
grips. Manufactured c. 1870-1890, this is an
attractive cased pair of Colt No. 1 derringers, a
design that the company procured through the
purchase of the National Firearms Co. in 1870.
These compact pistols along with Colt’s other
two derringer variations were widely popular in
the late 19th century as a concealable defense
option that could easily fit in a coat pocket or
purse. These No. 1 derringers, along with the
No. 2 variation, are some of the few Colt models
that came standard with factory engraving.
These two examples have the typical flourishes
of floral scroll on the sides of the frame and
top of the back strap. The top of the barrel is
marked with the standard two line address and
model marking flanked by Maltese crosses.
The matching serial number of each pistol is
marked on the butt and bottom of the barrel.
Both pistols have British proofs on the bottom
of the barrels. They are fitted with German silver
blade front sights, hammer notch rear sights,
and checkered panels on the metal grips.
Includes a very rare attractive presentation
style oak case lined with blue velvet and a Colt
London Agency label inside the lid.
CONDITION: Fine, retains 30% of the original
blue finish and 50% of the attractively aged
silver plating with the balance mostly a smooth
grey patina, some scattered patches of light
pitting, and crisp engraving. The barrel is stuck
shut, otherwise mechanically functions. The
case is also fine with some staining on the trade
label and minor handling/storage evidence.
B) Colt No. 1 Derringer - Serial no. 2941, 41
RF cal., 2 1/2 inch flat topped round bbl., blue/
silver finish, metal grips. See “A”.
CONDITION: Very fine, retains 50% plus of the
original blue finish and 85% of the attractively
aged silver plating with the balance mostly
grey patina, some light flaking, and crisp
engraving. Mechanically excellent. An attractive
and rare pair of London Agency
cased No. 1 derringers!
Provenance:
The George S. Lewis Jr. Collection.
Estimate: 8,500 - 13,000
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