Guns International #: 103099874

Category - Antique Pistols - Cartridge - Derringer Antique

Category
Antique Pistols - Cartridge
Derringer Antique

Extremely Rare Antique Civil War Era , Morgan & Clapp Single Shot 30RF Derringer with case & ammo

Description:
Very Rare Antique Morgan & Clapp Single Shot Derringer
Model:    Single Shot Derringer
Serial #:  229
Caliber:  .30 Caliber Rimfire
Type:      Single-shot percussion, rimfire conversion
Action:   (pivots right for loading)
Barrel Length: 3 ½ “  total length 6 ½ “
Frame:   Brass
Finish:   Blued barrel, brass frame
Grips:    Walnut, square-butt

Markings:

• Top of barrel stamped: "MORGAN & CLAPP. NEW HAVEN. CT."

Historical Overview
Production Period: 1864–1866
Total Produced:      Approximately 500 units
Morgan & Clapp was a short-lived firearms manufacturing partnership based in New Haven, Connecticut, active during the American Civil War period. Founded by William Morgan and Henry Clapp, the company was part of the broader surge of small arms manufacturers in New England during the war era, many of which focused on pocket pistols and derringers for civilian use or personal defense.
The firm's output was limited, and it ceased production around 1866. The Morgan & Clapp derringer was one of the smallest production runs of the many Civil War-era derringers, making surviving examples rare and desirable among collectors. Despite their small size and modest design, these derringers represented the innovative spirit of American gunmakers during a time of national conflict.

Collectibility Notes

• Unique Features:
  • Right-pivoting barrel for loading (less common than top-break or vertical pivots)
  • Square-butt walnut grips—most derringers of the era used bird’s head grips
• Collectibility Rating: ?????
  • Rare due to very low production numbers (500 units)
  • Early American derringer; Civil War-era manufacturing
  • Marked examples with intact grips and original finish are especially valuable
• Estimated Value Range (2025):
  • Good condition: $1,200–$1,800
  • Excellent condition (all original, clear markings): $2,500+
  • Mint condition or documented provenance: $3,000–$4,000+

Condition: 3 ½” nice bore with minor pin-prick pitting and still showing rifling throughout. Blued barrel is in good condition with the bluing thinning and turning to a nice antique gun-metal grey. Barrel markings all are clear and legible.  Original walnut grips are in very nice condition. They have a stress crack about 1” long running from the grip screw to the top of the receiver.   A few very small dents and minor handling marks are also present.  Original grips are stamped to the pistol.  Mechanics work excellent in half and full-cock positions with a strong hammer spring . Lock-up has just a tiny bit of play.   This is a complete original collectible derringer , description is described to the best of my ability . Please view the photos for condition. 
I’ll include a small custom display case along with two rounds of vintage .30RF ammo.

As a collector's piece,  This Morgan & Clapp derringer holds historical significance due to its association with American firearms history and its representation of mid-19th-century firearm design and innovation. Its unique markings and features make it a desirable item for enthusiasts of antique firearms and collectors of historical artifacts.  This gun is and Antique and ships direct to the buyer with FREE SHIPPING INCLUDED
Payment can be made with a personal check, money order, Venmo or Zelle .
 

 

Antique: Yes
Manufacturer: Morgan & Clapp
Model: derringer
Serial Number: 229
Barrel Length: 3.5

Price: $950.00
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