"Make: Blue Jacket (Manufactured by Hopkins & Allen)
Model: Blue Jacket No.1
Serial Number: 2838
Year of Manufacture: 1871-1889
Caliber: .22 Short Rimfire
Action Type: Single Action Only Revolver
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BLUE JACKET No.1 NY. PAT. MAR.28.1871”. The bottom left of the grip frame is marked “2838”. There is extensive decorative engraving throughout the revolver.
Barrel Length: 2.25” Round Barrel
Sights / Optics: Front Sight: Blade fixed to the barrel. Rear Sight: A ""U"" groove cut into the top strap, exposed when the hammer is cocked.
Grip Configuration & Condition: Two-piece pearl grips exhibiting a beautiful natural sheen. Both panels show only minor handling marks and remain free of cracks or significant damage. Grips rate in Fine condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original. The engraving style and pattern match known examples of Hopkins & Allen Blue Jacket series revolvers.
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with dulled rifling. There is minor erosion throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains approximately 90% of its original nickel finish, showing honest age and handling wear consistent with its period. There is some finish loss near the trigger area and cylinder edges. The cylinder shows a defined turn line. Screw heads range from sharp to slightly tool-marked. All markings remain crisp and legible. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine-plus condition for an antique firearm.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer cocks securely, the trigger releases smoothly, and the cylinder indexes and locks up properly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all antique firearms, a thorough cleaning and inspection is recommended before firing. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This charming revolver comes elegantly displayed in an ornate red velvet-lined carry case, complete with personalized brass plaque marked ""Anna Rosa."" Included are period accessories suited to a Victorian-era lady’s traveling kit:
A beautiful dagger featuring a pearl handle and ornate silver hilt.
A vintage makeup compact with an abalone/pearl top and a mirror inside, rating in Very Good condition.
A period-correct perfume bottle.
A vintage garter belt.
All accessories and the carry case are in Very Good overall condition, making this a unique and intriguing collector’s ensemble.
Our Assessment: This highly ornate Blue Jacket No.1 .22 Rimfire revolver, produced by Hopkins & Allen between 1871 and 1889, exemplifies Victorian elegance and practical self-defense style. Hopkins & Allen, founded in 1868, became renowned for their revolvers, particularly those associated with Merwin Hulbert. The Blue Jacket No.1 was among their popular personal protection revolvers, known for quality, reliability, and affordability during the post-Civil War era.
This particular revolver, serial number 2838, is beautifully engraved, retaining significant original nickel finish, complemented by attractive pearl grips. Accompanied by unique accessories—a pearl-handled dagger, a vintage makeup compact, perfume bottle, and garter belt—all presented in an antique red velvet carry case personalized ""Anna Rosa,"" this set provides a fascinating glimpse into late-19th-century personal protection and style.
For collectors of Victorian firearms, antique curiosities, or those interested in the societal role of firearms as personal accessories in the 1870s-1880s, this captivating set represents an extraordinary find. Both elegant and historically intriguing, it will be an excellent addition to any distinguished collection.
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