USHS Buffalo Bill Commemorative Colt 1860 Army .44 Cal 8″ Revolver

SOLD FOR: $1,000.00

LSB#: LSB260128MC013

Make: Williamsburg Firearms, for the United States Historical Society

Model: 1860 Army

Serial Number: 25

Year of Manufacture: 1983

Caliber: .44 Caliber

Action Type: Single Action Cap and Ball Percussion Revolver

Markings: The barrel is marked “William F. Cody” on both sides of the barrel. The serial number is marked on the bottom of the frame. There is extensive engraving and gold inlay throughout. 

Barrel Length: 8″

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a half moon gold plated blade set into the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a “V” notch in the hammer visible when cocked.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a one piece simulated ivory. There is light handling wear. There are no chips or cracks. Overall this grip is in Excellent condition. 

Type of Finish: Blued, Gold

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:  The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion this bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 99% of its original finish. There is very minor handling wear. The screws are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall this revolver is in Excellent condition. 

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all firearms a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Wood presentation box with cap tin, powder flask, and nipple wrench.

Our Assessment: The USHS Buffalo Bill Commemorative Colt 1860 Army is a late 20th century presentation revolver produced in 1983 by Williamsburg Firearms for The United States Historical Society, drawing from one of Colt’s most historically significant percussion designs. The original 1860 Army revolver was a primary sidearm of Union forces during the Civil War, valued for its .44 caliber power, improved balance over earlier models, and streamlined frame design. This commemorative example honors William F. Cody, known as Buffalo Bill, a figure closely associated with the American frontier and post-Civil War expansion. The revolver blends the classic lines of the 1860 Army with extensive engraving and gold inlay, emphasizing its role as a collector and display piece rather than a working firearm.

This example, serial number 25, retains approximately 99% of its original blued and gold-accented finish, showing only minimal handling wear. The engraving remains crisp and well executed, and the gold inlay stands out prominently across the revolver’s surfaces. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, rating 10/10, indicating little to no use. The simulated ivory grip remains in Excellent condition, showing only light handling marks with no structural issues. The gold-plated front sight and traditional hammer-notch rear sight maintain the period-correct sighting system, while the markings, including the William F. Cody inscription, are clear and well defined.

Mechanically, the revolver functions correctly, maintaining the crisp single action operation expected of the Colt percussion system. The included wood presentation case and accessories, including a powder flask, cap tin, and nipple wrench, complete the set and reinforce its presentation as a commemorative piece. This revolver stands as a visually striking example of a Colt 1860 Army tribute, combining historical inspiration with decorative craftsmanship and strong overall condition. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! MF