1849 colt revolvers

[1867crete]

I am looking at a colt 1849 pocket for purchase. Unfortunately no photos but wanted to get some information from the group. How does manufacturing year affect price? Does pre war production versus war production effect price. And obviously condition is important cylinder scene, matching numbers etc. I've seen people reference one line address versus two line addresses? And lastly I've seen people mention a letter from colt. Does this greatly affect the value and what is the process of getting a letter from colt? I know site unseen is impossible for valuation. But what is a range of prices. Just so I have a little information to arm my self!!! And anything to look out for. Number matching "fair" condition pre war manufactured. Is basically what I was told and this is what I'm expecting. Thanks in advance for any and all input!

 

[bayonet]

I am looking at a colt 1849 pocket for purchase. Unfortunately no photos but wanted to get some information from the group. How does manufacturing year affect price? Does pre war production versus war production effect price. And obviously condition is important cylinder scene, matching numbers etc. I've seen people reference one line address versus two line addresses? And lastly I've seen people mention a letter from colt. Does this greatly affect the value and what is the process of getting a letter from colt? I know site unseen is impossible for valuation. But what is a range of prices. Just so I have a little information to arm my self!!! And anything to look out for. Number matching "fair" condition pre war manufactured. Is basically what I was told and this is what I'm expecting. Thanks in advance for any and all input!

The Colt letter will cost you $300 (or is it $350 now), not worth it if you paid $900 or less for your Colt. Many years ago they were $25 when it was worth it. It you want a pristine Colt in excellent condition (probably never fired a shot in anger and sat in a case in the rear far from action) that costs $3000 then by all means get the letter. Or if money is no object to you get it and send us some money too!
The only thing the letter will tell you on some fancy document is when it was made and where it was shipped to as in what Armory or Dealer. It will not tell you what Regiment or Unit got it or what Individual Soldier carried it, so yawn boring!
I have 3 Colts hanging up on my wall collection. A 1860 Army, a 1851 Navy, and a 1849 pocket as you say Colt. I paid between $700-950 on each. The 1849 & 1851 are Hartford marked and I just wanted it so due to my connection with Connecticut. Yes a Hartford marked barrel will cost you just alittle more. All 3 are in good condition (not great) and function properly. Great is more expensive but good has character and tells me these Colts may have seen action!
If you want a 1849 yes look for all matching serial #s and a clear barrel address. Remember they still made these after the ACW so if you want one look for a lower serial #. These sell online (Dealers) or at auctions quite often so you can get a good one for under $1000 easily. Or just go to the many shows and buy one.

 

[JOHN42768]

You can look up the serial number online to find year of manufacture, but that is all it will tell you

 

[Cornpone and Molasses]

As @JOHN42768 stated, here is the website if you want to check a Colt serial number.
https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup/

 

[JOHN42768]

Here is a little helpful info : https://americansocietyofarmscollec...-Some-Of-The-Old-Model-Pocket-Pistols-Cal.pdf

 

[Jonl51]

I am looking at a colt 1849 pocket for purchase. Unfortunately no photos but wanted to get some information from the group. How does manufacturing year affect price? Does pre war production versus war production effect price. And obviously condition is important cylinder scene, matching numbers etc. I've seen people reference one line address versus two line addresses? And lastly I've seen people mention a letter from colt. Does this greatly affect the value and what is the process of getting a letter from colt? I know site unseen is impossible for valuation. But what is a range of prices. Just so I have a little information to arm my self!!! And anything to look out for. Number matching "fair" condition pre war manufactured. Is basically what I was told and this is what I'm expecting. Thanks in advance for any and all input!

Hello,
Civil War year M1849's or prior are probably more desirable than post war made guns. At least to the CW community. Remaining cylinder scene, barrel length, 5 shot or the much rarer 6 shot, condition of the wood grips etc., are all factors. My favorite happens to be the 6 shot, 6 inch barrel, but that's just me. The gun should function properly in terms of its mechanics. The condition of the bore is something else to look at relative to overall condition. Of course better condition guns cost more, but still shouldn't break the bank. Good luck! Jonl51

 

[scooter748driver]

I think they're great little guns. Here are my three (all Hartfords, 4", 5", and 6")

 

[Jonl51]

I think they're great little guns. Here are my three (all Hartfords, 4", 5", and 6")

View attachment 517281

Nice looking guns! Thanks for sharing.