Very Rare Pettengill Army Model Revolver – .44 Caliber, Serial #2813 – Only 3,400 Produced / SOLD
Very Rare Pettengill Army Model Revolver – .44 Caliber, Serial #2813 – Only 3,400 Produced - Inventory Number: HAN 355 / SOLD
An extremely scarce example of the Pettengill Army Model Revolver, manufactured by Rogers & Spencer of Willow Dale, New York, under contract during the Civil War. This large-frame, .44 caliber, double-action percussion revolver bears serial number 2813, found on the butt strap, inside the trigger guard, and stamped inside both wooden grips, all matching.
Only approximately 3,400 Pettengill Army Models were ever produced, with just 500 known to have been issued to the 3rd Michigan Cavalry—making this one of the rarest standard-caliber revolvers used by Union forces.
The Pettengill was innovative for its time, employing a solid-frame, hammerless double-action design, which eliminated the traditional external hammer and reduced the risk of snagging—a feature favored by mounted troops.
This example retains smooth metal surfaces with a uniform gray patina, showing honest age and handling wear. The markings are strong and visible, with mechanically functional double-action operation. The original walnut grips remain in very good condition, tightly fitted with minor wear.
A seldom-seen revolver with direct ties to Union cavalry service and one of the most elusive of all Civil War military handguns. Highly desirable for advanced collections of Civil War arms or rare U.S. military firearms.