Auguste Francotte Model 1863 CF Conversion .44 Webley DA Revolver, Antique
SOLD FOR: $1102
LSB#: 210809TS03
Make: Auguste Francotte, Belgium
Model: 1863 Centerfire Conversion
Serial Number: 995
Year of Manufacture: Mid-Late 1800s Antique
Caliber: .44 Webley, Originally 11mm Pinfire
Action Type: Single or Double Action Pinfire Revolver Converted to Centerfire
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “A FRANCOTTE / A LIEGE” and at the rear with a “crown / SA” proof and “crown / AF”. The left side of the barrel is marked “ACIER FONDU”. The right side of the barrel is marked “124”. The bottom front of the barrel assembly is marked “932”. Both of the bottom sides of the barrel assembly are marked with crowned Belgian proofs. The left side of the frame is marked “995” and “crown / CC”. The left side of the trigger is marked “995”. The cylinder is marked “55” and with a Liege proof. There is a brass inlay on the left grip panel that is marked “471”
Barrel Length: The octagon barrel is 5” in length.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a pinched beaded blade that is dovetailed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a “U” groove in the boss at the top of the flash shield.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece wood panels. The panels appear to have been refinished at some point. There are some draglines and compressions on either panel. There is a small gash on the left panel. There are gaps between the top of the panels and the metal. There are no chips or cracks. The grips are in about Very Good overall condition as Antique and possibly refinished.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with pronounced rifling. There is moderate erosion and pitting scattered throughout the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 5% of its metal finish. The surfaces show surface loss with light to heavy erosion and pitting scattered over the surfaces. There is a small amount of thinned finish remaining on the right side of the frame. There are several nicks and scratches throughout. The screw heads are disfigured yet serviceable and the markings are legible. Overall, this handgun rates in about Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly in single and double action, with a small amount of play in the cylinder lock-up. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This is a centerfire converted model 1863 revolver built by Augustus Francotte of Belgium. The pistol has a 5” barrel and is chambered in .44 Webley after conversion. The pistol doesn’t have much finish left, and there is erosion in most surfaces. The action functions correctly. This is still an interesting revolver from one of the most productive of the 19th Century European gunsmiths, and should be of interest to collectors of early European revolvers. Please see our photos and good luck!