John Taffin 2nd Gen Colt 1860 Army Stainless .44 Cal 8” Percussion Revolver
SOLD FOR: $1,115.00
LSB#: LSB250701SS055
Make: Colt
Model: 1860 Army Stainless
Serial Number: 212181S
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1970’s
Caliber: .44 Cal.
Action Type: Single Action Ball & Cap Percussion Revolver with 6-Shot Cylinder.
Barrel Length: 8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a v-notch in the hammer – visible when cocked.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is one-piece smooth walnut. There are a few light handling marks including a few minor compressions. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grip rates in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Stainless.
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: The balance of the stainless shows no notable operational wear. There are a few minor scratches. The markings are clear. The screw heads are sharp. There is some residue on the bottom of the barrel in front of the loading lever. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action is tight and crisp. The hammer holds securely at half- and full-cock, the cylinder indexes properly, and the trigger breaks cleanly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes with its factory box, owner’s manual, Colt Catalog, and a John Taffin Collection Certificate of Authenticity.
Our Assessment: The Colt 1860 Army is one of the most famous percussion revolvers ever produced, serving as the primary sidearm for Union forces during the Civil War. Its .44 caliber chambering, streamlined profile, and strong reputation for reliability made it a favorite among soldiers and frontiersmen alike. This stainless steel Colt-manufactured example, likely produced in the 1970s, brings the timeless design into a modern material that resists corrosion and handling wear while retaining the classic lines of the original. With its 8” barrel, sharp rifling, and excellent overall condition, it offers both historical appeal and practical durability.
Adding to its significance, this revolver comes from the John Taffin Collection and includes a certificate of authenticity. Taffin is widely recognized as one of the foremost authorities on revolvers, and his personal ownership provides additional collector value to this already desirable piece. For black powder enthusiasts, Colt collectors, or anyone who values a percussion revolver that combines Civil War history with modern stainless construction and impeccable provenance, this 1860 Army is a standout opportunity. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
