A factory-engraved Merwin and Hulbert large-frame single-action revolver with top strap, serial 15917, dating to roughly 1876 through the 1880s. It is chambered in .44-40 and wears a 7-inch round barrel. About 35 percent of the nickel remains, thinning to brown patina in places, while the factory stampings on both barrel and frame stay sharp. A deer scene is engraved on the side plate, and the mother-of-pearl grips are carved with a Mexican eagle. The grips show light chips at the edges. The action indexes correctly and locks up tight. Very good condition overall.

This is a collector's revolver, and a decorated one at that. Engraving, carved pearl grips and the top-strap large frame put it in a different class from a plain working Merwin. A buyer assembling a group of American frontier-era revolvers, or one who focuses on factory engraving and period grips, will find more here than in a stock example.

Key features

• Large-frame top-strap single action, circa 1876-1880s
• .44-40, 7-inch round barrel
• Factory engraving, deer scene on side plate
• Mother-of-pearl grips carved with Mexican eagle
• About 35 percent nickel, tight lockup

The revolver ships to the FFL dealer you choose at checkout, where the federal Form 4473 and background check are completed before pickup.