Colt 1860 Army .44 Cal 8″ Black Powder Revolver MFD 1861 Antique

SOLD FOR: $1,300.00

LSB#: LSB250520JB037

Make: Colt

Model: 1860 Army

Serial Number: 18078

Year of Manufacture: 1861, Antique

Caliber: .44 Caliber Black Powder

Action Type: Single Action, Percussion Cap Revolver with Six-Round Rebated Cylinder

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “- ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA -”. The left side of the frame is marked “COLTS / PATENT”. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the naval battle scene and “COLT’S PATENT No. 18078 / PAT. SEPT. 10th 1850”. The bottom of the barrel assembly, frame, trigger guard, and butt are all marked with matching serial number “18078”.

Barrel Length: 8”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass blade fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a notch in the hammer, visible when cocked.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is 2 smooth wood panels. There is moderate wear present. The butt of the panels have been notch, presumably for a lanyard. The grip rates in Fair condition. 

Type of Finish: Originally Blued and Case Colored 

Finish Originality: Appears Original

Bore Condition: The bore is dark and the rifling is worn but visible. There is moderate erosion and pitting throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 4/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains 0% of its original finish. The balance shows typical thinning wear, pitting, and operational wear from a service used pistol from a 164 year old revolver. The screw heads are tool marked but serviceable. The markings range from legible to faint. The revolver rates in about Fair condition for a Civil War-era antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up well with some play. The hammer holds at half- and full-cock. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Colt Model 1860 Army was the primary sidearm issued to Union troops during the American Civil War, with over 200,000 produced between 1860 and 1873. Built on the same frame as the .36 caliber Navy but modified with a rebated cylinder and rounded barrel lug, the 1860 Army is one of the most iconic and combat-proven percussion revolvers of the era.

This particular example was manufactured in 1861, the first full year of the Civil War. Its early serial number places it among the first production runs issued to Union forces. Despite loss of finish and moderate wear, it remains complete with matching serial numbers and visible cylinder scene, lending it significant collector appeal.

For collectors of American military arms or Civil War relics, this revolver offers historical authenticity and classic Colt craftsmanship. Whether displayed in a collection, museum, or reenactment setting, it speaks directly to the wartime legacy of Colt’s percussion revolvers. Please see our high quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.