Guns International #: 103245308
Seller's Inventory #: 60829

Category - Colt Pistols - Antique - Colt Pistols

Category
Colt Pistols - Antique
Colt Pistols

Colt No. 3 Thuer Derringer .41 RF

Description:
Factory Engraved Colt Number 3 Thuer Derringer, .41 Rimfire
Features:

• Caliber: .41 Rimfire
• Barrel: 2 1/2" barrel, blue finished with matching scroll engraving and chiseled border at muzzle
• Frame: Nickel-finished with factory scroll and single-line border engraving, over 90% finish remaining with typical high-point losses
• Grips: Mother of pearl, very fine with tiny chip at interior of toe
• Markings: Serial numbered under grips with "E" stamping in two locations indicating "ENGRAVED"
• Condition: Very fine, barrel toned to plumish blue, good bore with darkness in groove edges, mechanically excellent
• Mechanics: Mechanically excellent, fully functional
• Serial Number: 18012, manufactured circa 1870s–1880s
• Status: Antique, no FFL required (except in California)
• Shipping: Free shipping, no credit card fees

This is a stunning Factory Engraved Colt Number 3 Thuer Derringer in .41 Rimfire, manufactured by Colt’s Manufacturing Company in Hartford, Connecticut. The serial number 18012, combined with the “E” stamping beneath the grips indicating factory engraving, places production in the 1870s to 1880s, as Colt’s Third Model Derringer was produced from 1875 to 1912 with approximately 45,000 units made. Designed by F. Alexander Thuer, this derringer features a side-pivot barrel with an automatic ejector, a significant improvement over earlier models, and was popular for concealed carry in urban centers during the late 19th century. The .41 Rimfire cartridge, though low-powered, was effective for self-defense, earning the derringer nicknames like “gambler’s vest gun” or “lady’s garter gun”. The factory engraving, with scrolls and a chiseled muzzle border, elevates this piece to a high-grade collectible, likely produced for a discerning buyer. Its historical significance lies in its role as Colt’s flagship derringer, reflecting the era’s demand for compact, ornate firearms.

This example is in very fine condition, with the frame retaining over 90% of its original nickel finish, showing typical high-point losses. The 2 1/2" barrel has toned to a plumish blue, complementing the matching scroll engravings. The bore is good, with some darkness in the groove edges, and the mother of pearl grips are very fine, with only a tiny chip at the interior toe. Mechanically excellent, the derringer functions flawlessly, ready for display. The “E” stampings and serial number under the grips confirm its factory-engraved status. All markings, including “-COLT-” on the barrel top and “41 CAL” on the frame, are crisp and legible.

Safety Note: As an antique firearm, this derringer should be inspected by a qualified gunsmith before any attempt to fire, as .41 Rimfire ammunition is obsolete and requires specialized reproduction rounds.

Don’t miss your chance to own this rare and beautifully preserved Factory Engraved Colt Number 3 Thuer Derringer, a true gem of American firearms history. Click the “Buy It Now” button or call 478-337-1000 to secure this fine derringer today!
Terms:

• Free Shipping, No Credit Card Fees
• Lay-a-way available for this firearm
• 1/3 Down, 1/3 in 30 Days, 1/3 in 60 Days

Antique: Yes
Handgun Caliber: .41 Rimfire
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: No. 3
Serial Number: 18012
Barrel Length: 2 1/2
Bore Info: 41 Rim Fire
Condition: Very Fine
Metal Condition: Very Fine
Bore Condition: Good
Barrels: 2 1/2
Barrel Type: Round
Action: Single Action
Triggers: Spur
Stock: Mother Of Pearl
Finish: Nickel & Blue
Sights: Fixed
Engraving: Scroll & Vine

Price: $1,895.00
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