March 1962 - Guns Magazine

Texas Model Paterson-made Colt gun came from Canada,
amazed customs officials when they learned value of
this "old relic" that probably was made around 1836.
This en9raved little sidehammer percussion Colt was
acquired by author when he bought entire collection.
Wood for stocks came from famed "Charter Oak" tree.
it is fun trying, and you at least end up with something
different!
In every collecting field, there are outstanding types or
models which top the others ill desirability and interest.
Among gun collectors, the Colt pistols made at Paterson
N.J., being Colt's first models, and the big "Walker"
dragoon Colt pistol made at Whitneyville in 1847, are
considered great prizes. I have had some exciting experiences
in acquiring both types of these rare pistols, and first
I would like to tell you about that Paterson-made Colt
pistol with serial number 1 which I mentioned earlier.
When I first started collecting, I knew of few places to
look for old guns, so I placed some Wanted ads in magazines.
One day I received a letter from Brooklyn in which
the writer indicated that he had seen my ad in The Rural
New Yorker, and that he owned a Colt cap and ball pistol
made at Paterson. He added rather off-handedly that the
only number he could find on it was 1.
Well, I had had my leg pulled by experts, and I figured
that this fellow was out to have some fun. Nevertheless, I
answered his letter and asked for more information. No
reply. I was just about ready to say "the hell with it" when
I had occasion to be in Brooklyn, and on a hunch I went to
this man's address and rang his doorbell. He was not at
home. His wife invited me in after she learned my mission,
and soon plunked down on the table in front of me, with
the comment that she'd like to get the pesky thing out of
the house, a truly fine 1836 (Continued on page 41)
Sketch of Emperor
Maximillian's coat
of arms was made
from i v 0 r y grips
of gun bought for
$10 in Mexican bar.
18
Matched pair or richly engraved Colt Navy guns was purchased over a century ago from
New Orleans gun dealers. Set was obtained from direct descendents of the original purchaser.
GUNS • MARCH 1962