Original French Engraved Nickel-Plated 9mm Pinfire Revolver cira 1860-65

Original Item: Only one available. Almost certainly of French origin, this 9mm 6 shot Pinfire Revolver was of a type imported into the United States for Officer's private purchase during the Civil War. The Pinfire system was the earliest form of "Cartridge" developed with a pin projecting out at 90 degrees to the cartridge case. When depressed by the falling hammer the cartridge discharged. At the time up against muzzle loading Revolvers these were revolutionary. Like most things by the end of the Civil War technology had moved on and in the late 1860's regular type cartridges as we know them today had been introduced. This is a very nice example, lightly engraved, nickel plated and fitted with "Gutta Percha" hard rubber rather ornate grips that are still "Crisp". Right side grip does have a small chunk on the rear lower corner missing. Mainly double action, the revolver can also be cocked and discharged, Western Style, in Single Action. Unfortunately the hammer spur for Single action