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

SOLD FOR: $1,384.00

LSB#: LSB260218HG033

Make: Williamsburg Firearms, for the United States Historical Society

Model: 1860 Army

Serial Number: 1258

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, red velvet bags, and nipple wrench.

Our Assessment: The USHS Buffalo Bill Commemorative Colt 1860 Army is a decorative reproduction of one of the most recognizable percussion revolvers of the 19th century, produced to honor William F. Cody and the broader mythology of the American frontier. The original Colt 1860 Army was widely used during the Civil War and became known for its streamlined profile, improved balance, and .44 caliber performance. This 1983 commemorative example, produced by Williamsburg Firearms for the United States Historical Society, elevates the traditional design with extensive engraving and gold inlay, transforming the revolver into a presentation piece that reflects both historical inspiration and collector-oriented craftsmanship.

Chambered in .44 caliber black powder, this revolver follows the classic single action percussion format with an 8″ barrel, offering a long sight radius and balanced handling consistent with the original Army pattern. The half-moon gold-plated front sight and hammer notch rear maintain period-correct sighting while complementing the decorative finish. The cap and ball system preserves the mechanical simplicity of 19th century revolvers, while the engraved surfaces and gold accents emphasize its commemorative intent rather than purely utilitarian function.

This example presents in excellent condition, retaining approximately 99% of its original blued and gold finish with only minimal handling wear. The simulated ivory grip remains clean and well-fitted with no structural concerns, and the bore is bright with sharp rifling. The action functions correctly, and the overall presentation is enhanced by the included wood display case and accessories, including a cap tin, powder flask, velvet bags, and nipple wrench. Altogether, this revolver represents a well-preserved and visually striking commemorative interpretation of the Colt 1860 Army. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! MF