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HIGHEST SERIAL KNOWN FOR CONFEDERATE RIGDON

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:10,000.00 USD Estimated At:20,000.00 - 30,000.00 USD
HIGHEST SERIAL KNOWN FOR CONFEDERATE RIGDON
& ANSLEY REVOLVER. Cal. 36. S# 2352. This is the highest serial number known for a complete Rigdon & Ansley revolver made in Augusta, Georgia, late 1864. S# 2359 barrel and cylinder are higher number known mounted on Colt frame. These last-ditch revolvers share several characteristics: “CSA” marking on top barrel flat has a partially filled “C”. “W” inspection stamp on left side of the triggerguard is unique with small wings on the “W”, only seen on revolvers without Wescom Hudgins cartouche. Matching serial numbers are found on barrel, wedge, cylinder, frame, backstrap, triggerguard, and arbor. Consistent with other late production 12-stop revolvers are lack of safety pins, capping channel, solid non-spring wedge, and large die serial numbers. Large casting flaw seen on left side of frame which does not affect pistols function but early in the war would have been polished out, but the dire need of revolvers precluded aesthetic. CONDITION: good to very good overall, appears all original and matching including screws with possible exception of loading lever catch which has matching patina and appears original to time of use. Good discernible markings, iron is a mottled gray patina, brass has a mixed medium mustard patina. Grips retain about half their varnished finish with moderate edge wear, otherwise sharp and superior for most Confederate revolvers. Mechanics need attention, cylinder does not rotate, crisp cock and half cock. Good discernible dirty rifled bore. PROVENANCE: Ex-Turner Kirkland collection, Union City, TN, 1960s; Ex-David Critchlow, Sr (1930-2018) collection, Union City, TN (publisher of Union City Messenger); David Critchlow, Jr, 2018. (01-18915/JS). ANTIQUE. $20,000-30,000.