Colt 1860 Army

[Down Range]

I just acquired a 1860 Colt Army black powder revolver. The serial number puts it out of the original run. The serial number is 204533. It's in a foam lined black cardboard box. I've seen these on Gunbroker on rare occasion. The box indicates a Model F1200. 44 caliber 8" barrel. The top of the barrel is stamped "ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW YORK U.S.A. AMERICA. My father owend this pistol for as long as I can remember. Any insight on manufacture date or value would be greatly appreciated.

 

[electricfactory]

Does your gun have a signature or an engraving on the backstrap ?

 

[JN01]

Take the plastic off the gun, it could trap moisture and rust the finish.

 

[1KPerDay]

Nice 2nd Generation. Watch here for more info.

 

[arcticap]

Take the plastic off the gun, it could trap moisture and rust the finish.

IMO the plastic could also protect against moisture if the gun were stored in a humid environment.
That the gun is kept well lubed inside the plastic could be better than taking it out of the plastic.

Also, brass tarnish is the result of simple exposure to oxygen.

"With regular use and handling, the brass itself is exposed to the oxygen in the air, and oxidation occurs which results in a tarnish or patina on the surface of the brass that keeps it from looking clean and bright." --->>> https://www.hunker.com/13411145/about-brass-oxidation

And:

How do you keep brass from tarnishing?
Brass will automatically start to tarnish if exposed to oxygen. The only way to prevent polished brass from tarnishing is to coat it with a layer of clear sealer that will prevent air from reaching the brass itself. Many brass surfaces come with this finish originally, but it can wear down over time. --->>> https://www.hunker.com/13419830/how-to-keep-polished-brass-from-tarnishing