This lot includes a very rare and desirable Manhattan Firearms Manufacturing Company .36 caliber percussion revolver, also known as the Manhattan Navy Type. 78,000 of these fine revolvers were made between 1859-1868 from serial numbered from 1 on up. The early number on this example is 4144 indicating that it is probably a first or second year production revolver and one of the very earliest of the ‰ÛÏSeries II‰Û Navy Type revolvers that was made during the build-up to the Civil War when both sides were arming before hostilities began. Overall, the untouched and uncleaned condition of this example places it in a seldom seen category for Civil War arms of this type that normally saw hard use and abuse during the turbulent days of the early 1860s. All metal surfaces are in fine condition. The matching serial number is stamped on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, butt, rear face of the cylinder and even on the original frame wedge (these almost always mismatched or replaced). The brass trigger guard and back strap are an uncleaned and particularly attractive mellow brass. Fine naturally aged blue is still apparent on the barrel and the cylinder retains much of the original roll engraved decorative oval panels. This five-shot, four inch octagon barrel revolver was a strong competitor to Colt‰Ûªs line of revolvers. Many considered the Manhattan to be the better product and sales for this fine weapon remained strong during it‰Ûªs time of manufacture. After the War Between the States, many of these robust arms found their way West where they typically saw hard, sustained use. The one piece walnut grips on this example retain most of their original factory varnished finish and the barrel is clearly marked, ‰ÛÏMANHATTAN FIRE ARMS MFG. CO NEW YORK.‰Û The rear of the cylinder retains the correct ‰ÛÏPATENTED DECEMBER 27, 1859‰Û marking. This revolver still maintains a fully functioning action. Not only a scarce Civil War firearm, but a rare variation makes this an outstanding historical revolver worthy of the finest firearm, Civil War or Old West collection. It is unusual to encounter this scarce model in an unaltered and unmolested state of condition. The revolver qualifies as an Antique Hand Gun, and does not require FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check. Serial Number: 4144. For a complete representation of condition and for additional images please call 800-686-4216. It is the buyer‰Ûªs responsibility to view each image and preview the item to determine condition.