Make: Colt
Model: 1860 Army
Serial Number: 41142
Year of Manufacture: 1862 (Antique)
Caliber: .44 Caliber Percussion
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Six-Shot Cylinder
Markings: The barrel and frame feature extensive period-style scroll engraving masterfully executed and signed by FEGA (Firearms Engravers Guild of America) member William B. Ellis. The top of the barrel is marked "ADDRESS COL. SAM’L COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA." The cylinder retains portions of the original naval battle scene and is marked with Colt’s patent date. The matching serial number "41142" appears on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, backstrap, wedge, and cylinder. The grips are carved Ivory with an embossed patriotic motif featuring a U.S. flag, cannon, also signed by William B. Ellis. There are Martial inspection marks on the barrel, cylinder, and grip frame.
Barrel Length: 8” Round Barrel
Sights / Optics: Front Sight: Blade fixed to the barrel (standard profile).Rear Sight: Hammer notch integral to the hammer, visible when cocked.
Grip Configuration & Condition: One-piece Ivory grips, masterfully carved by William B. Ellis, displaying a detailed patriotic scene featuring an American flag,& cannon. The grips exhibit gentle age-related coloring, minor handling marks, and no visible cracks or damage. They rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue Barrel & Cylinder, Case Hardened Frame, Brass Trigger Guard, Fire-Blued Screws
Finish Originality: Original to time of engraving.
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with well-defined rifling. There is moderate erosion throughout, typical of the age. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains approximately 90% of its current finish with the remaining areas exhibiting an appealing patina and light oxidation consistent with its age. Extensive, period-correct scroll engraving by renowned FEGA member William B. Ellis covers the barrel, frame, and backstrap, enhancing the revolver’s overall appearance and historical interest. The fire-blued screws retain vibrant coloration, providing delightful accents. The cylinder retains portions of the original naval battle roll engraving and patent date. Percussion nipples are in good condition, showing moderate wear without significant corrosion. The brass trigger guard shows mellowed age patina. The engraved details and markings are crisp and clear throughout. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine to Excellent condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a set of accessories housed in a fitted wooden display case including a patriotic motif powder flask embossed with crossed pistols, American eagle, and cannon, Colt bullet/ball mould, tin for percussion caps, Colt-marked percussion cap dispenser, bullet starter, vintage-styled screwdrivers, nipple wrench and nipple picks all house in an English-fitted wooden display case.
Our Assessment: The Colt Model 1860 Army is among the most celebrated and historically important sidearms of the American Civil War era, appreciated for its power, reliability, and graceful design. This exceptional example (serial number 41142, manufactured in 1862) is especially noteworthy due to its extensive period-style scroll engraving by acclaimed FEGA engraver William B. Ellis. Ellis’s meticulous workmanship and artistry are prominently displayed on both the revolver’s metal surfaces and the carved ivory grips, resulting in a firearm of striking beauty and historical resonance. This particular Colt 1860 Army is further enhanced by its comprehensive suite of accessories and the elegant fitted wooden case.
This revolver represents an extraordinary find for collectors of Civil War firearms, admirers of finely engraved pieces, and enthusiasts of historically significant American weaponry. With its signed engraving by William B. Ellis, remarkable condition, and extensive accessory set, it stands as a true heirloom piece and centerpiece of any advanced Colt or antique firearms collection.