This Volcanic No.1 Lever Action Pocket pistol with extra cost factory engraving and silver-plated frame was one of approximately 850 No. 1 Pocket Pistols manufactured with a 3 1/2 inch barrel between 1857 and 1862 per "Volcanic Firearms" (2011) by Lewis and Rutter, page 73. At that time, this pistol would have cost $13.50 compared to $12.00 for the plain version, an inexpensive upgrade at the time that has made this particular pistol especially valuable today. This pistol has the distinctive octagonal barrel with integral magazine, "pinched" blade front sight fitted at the muzzle, and "NEW HAVEN CONN./PATENT FEB. 14. 1854" in two lines on top. The silver-plated "gunmetal" frame features classic factory scroll and border engraving, a dovetail mounted notch rear sight, serial number "2017" on the left side of the butt under the flat base walnut grips which each feature the matching serial number stamped on the back side. The hammer has hand-cut knurling on the spur. Volcanic firearms are historically significant and represent an important step in the development of American repeating firearms and self-contained cartridges. The lever action and integral spring-loaded magazine introduced with Volcanic pistols and carbines served as the basic design for the Henry rifle and the Winchester Model 1866, 1873, and 1876 rifles. Oliver Winchester's investment in the Volcanic Repeating Arms Co. eventually led to the establishment of the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. Provenance: The Charles Marx Collection

Very fine. The barrel retains 40% original blue finish with smooth brown patina on the balance. The frame retains 85% plus original silver plating taking on a very attractive age darkened appearance. The engraving is crisp. The grips are fine with a small divot on the right panel and number of minor handing marks. The lever does not stay up, otherwise action functions properly. A well above average condition factory engraved New Haven Arms Co. Volcanic No. 1 pistol that would look great in any antique American collection.