Matching serial #116373, .36 caliber, six-shot cylinder with engraved Texas and Mexican navies in battle and COLTS PATENT NO. 8770; 7.25 in. octagonal barrel marked - ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY - , left side of frame stamped COLTS PATENT, walnut grips with brass trigger guard and strap.

The base of the grip's brass strap is engraved "P. C. Wessel 1861 presented to A. A. Wessel." Two brothers, Peter C. and Austin A. Wessel, served together as privates in the 11th New York Light Artillery. Peter, aged 33, enlisted on October 22, 1861 and served for three years. His younger brother Austin, aged 31, enlisted on November 4, 1861, mustering out on June 9, 1862. Austin's six-month term of enlistment was spent entirely at Fort Ellsworth in the Washington defenses. Peter, on the other hand, likely would have participated in major engagements such as Fredericksburg and Gettysburg.

Private Collection of a Gentleman, Southern MS

Working action; some finish remains on brass elements.