SJ&D Belgian Excelsior Portuguese Service DA/SA Revolver, 1885-1886 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1731
LSB#: 210722TS80
Make: Simonis, Janssen & Dumoulin
Model: Excelsior, Portuguese Service Revolver
Serial Number: 5236
Year of Manufacture: 1885-1886
Caliber: 9mm
Action Type: DA/SA Double Action and Single Action Revolver with Drop-Out Cylinder
Markings: The lower left barrel flat is marked with the serial number, “5236”. The left side of the frame below the cylinder is marked “SJ&D” in an oval. There are various Belgian inspection stamps dotted about the revolver, and there is a Liege proof on the back of the cylinder.
Barrel Length: 4 1/2”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a v-notch integral to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood panels, the left being thicker than the right. The right panel has a more notable series of compressions. Both panels have several areas where the checkering is lightly worn. Both panels have a darker appearance and the smooth borders have intermittent light nicks. There is light play in the panels to the frame. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good condition, as antique.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright and the rifling is well-defined. There are a few spots of light erosion and minor stubborn fouling can be seen in spots.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 66% of its metal finish. The cylinder has largely gone to a light patina and has light thinning on most edges. The frame has scattered light nicks and spots of surface oxidation and pitting. The ejector rod arm and cylinder pin have nearly gone to white. The barrel has light thinning on most edges along with scattered light nicks and spots of light surface oxidation. The mainscrew is lightly tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Very Good-to-Fine condition, as antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with light play on each chamber. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: On offer here is Belgian-made Nagant pattern revolver by Simonis, Janssen & Dumoulin and procured for service by the Portuguese Army. Like many service arms, it is largely devoid of any ornate markings beyond a serial number and inspection stamps. At the time this revolver was in use, the Portuguese Army could be found in Africa on pacification campaigns against the likes of Gungunhana. It is in overall Very Good-to-Fine condition for an antique with a great deal of its finish remaining and a decent bore. Collectors of militaria, especially esoteric militaria will be very interested to add this revolver to their collection. Good luck and happy bidding!