Guns International #: 103284633

Category - Handguns - American Revolvers - Antique Pistols - Cartridge

Category
Handguns - American Revolvers
Antique Pistols - Cartridge

Very Rare Antique James Warner Pocket Revolver – .30 Rimfire

Description:
Very Rare Antique James Warner Pocket Revolver – .30 Rimfire – SN#1434
Very Rare Antique James Warner Small Frame Pocket Revolver, .30 RF, 3-inch barrel, serial number 1434. Very Early production five-shot percussion revolver  and smooth walnut grips. A scarce and desirable example of James Warner compact pocket model, designed for discreet civilian carry in the mid-19th century.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

• Manufacturer: James Warner (Springfield, Massachusetts, USA)
• Model / Type: Pocket Revolver – .30 Rimfire, Single Action
• Serial Number: 1434
• Caliber: .30 Rimfire Cartridge
• Capacity: 5-shot
• Barrel Length: Approx. 3 inches (round barrel)
• Finish: Originally blued; now aged to gunmetal gray patina
• Grips: Smooth walnut, excellent condition
• Action: Single Action – fully functional
• Sights: Fixed front blade
• Markings: Cylinder marked: “WARNER’S PATENT 1857”
• Estimated Production: Approx. 1,000 made (late 1860s)
• Manufacture Period: Circa 1865–1870

HISTORICAL CONTEXT
James Warner was a 19th-century arms inventor and gunsmith based in Springfield, MA. He produced both percussion and early cartridge firearms, and held several patents related to revolver design. This particular model — a 5-shot, .30 rimfire pocket revolver — was likely manufactured in the late 1860s, during or shortly after the American Civil War.
Due to patent restrictions (notably the Smith & Wesson–held Rollin White patent), Warner’s cartridge revolvers faced legal challenges, limiting their production. Around 1,000 of this model were produced. While not standard military issue, it’s possible some were privately carried by soldiers or civilians during the Civil War era.

MECHANICAL CONDITION

• Functionality: Operates correctly in single-action mode
• Trigger / Hammer: Smooth trigger pull, hammer cocks and releases as intended
• Timing / Lockup: Cylinder indexes properly and locks securely
• Bore Condition: Good bore with moderate pitting and showing good rifling.
• Matching Parts: serial numbers match on major components

CONDITION

• Barrel & Cylinder: Gunmetal gray patina; original bluing mostly faded with minor spot pin-prick surface pitting.
• Frame: Uniform aged finish consistent with age
• Grips: Original walnut grips in excellent condition
• Markings: Clear and legible cylinder stamp: “WARNER’S PATENT 1857”
• Wear / Aging: Normal for age; no major corrosion or structural damage

COLLECTIBILITY 

• Rarity: Only ~1,000 manufactured
• Collector Appeal: Early cartridge revolver; limited run; patent dispute significance
• Estimated Value: $800 – $1,800

The firearm exhibits the hallmarks of James Warners craftsmanship, with a solid frame design and clean mechanical lines. The early serial number and compact configuration add to its collectibility, making this revolver a desirable piece for collectors of American cartridge-era firearms. Its survival in presentable condition provides a tangible link to the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit of mid-19th century American gunmaking.

This is an antique and no FFL required.  Will ship USPS priority mail. FREE SHIPPING INCLUDED  .  Custom case included .   This gun is sold "as-is" as a collectible with no refund and no return.   Payment can be made with bank check, postal money order, or personal check. If you prefer instant payment and shipping please email or text me for account info.
$749.00 Reasonable offers considered. 
 
 

Antique: Yes
Handgun Caliber: .30 RF
Manufacturer: James Warner
Model: pocket revolver
Barrel Length: 3

Price: $749.00
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