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Exceptional Colt Pocket Navy Richards-Mason cartridge conversion revolver, serial no. 3647, chambered in .38 caliber. The revolver displays the distinctive two-line frame marking “PAT. JULY 25, 1871 / PAT. JULY 2, 1872,” representing patents associated with Charles B. Richards and William Mason and Colt’s transition from percussion ignition to metallic-cartridge arms.
The revolver retains matching serial no. 3647 on the frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. The cylinder is particularly noteworthy for retaining its finely detailed roll-engraved stagecoach-holdup scene together with the “COLT’S PATENT” and matching serial-number panel. The barrel bears the two-line Hartford address, “COLT’S PT. F. A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.”
Richards-Mason conversions represent an important transitional chapter in Colt history. During the early 1870s, Colt adapted the basic architecture of its successful percussion revolvers to the increasingly dominant self-contained metallic cartridge. Charles B. Richards developed important elements of Colt’s cartridge-conversion system, while William Mason subsequently patented improvements in 1872. Revolvers incorporating features associated with both developments became known to collectors as Richards-Mason conversions.
This unusually fine example is especially desirable for its short 3 ½ in. barrel, matching-number components, exceptionally well-preserved cylinder scene, strong original blue and case-colored finishes, and fine walnut grips.
Item Date: Circa 1870's
Measurement: 3.5 inch barrel
Material: Blued steel barrel and cylinder; case-colored frame and hammer; brass trigger guard and backstrap; walnut grips
Item Condition: Spectacular condition, retaining an exceptional degree of bright original blue finish to the barrel and cylinder and vivid case coloring to the frame and hammer. The cylinder retains a remarkably crisp roll-engraved stagecoach-holdup scene and clearly legible “COLT’S PATENT / No. 3647” marking. Brass trigger guard and backstrap display a pleasing mellow surface retaining approximately 25% thinning silver, while the fine walnut grips exhibit much of their original finish. Matching serial no. 3647 is visible on the major components. Minor handling and age-related wear throughout.
Price: $7,650
SKU 308-736
For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.