Scarce First Model Allen & Wheelock Sidehammer 22RF Revolver

Serial #580, .22 Rim Fire (black powder), 2.5 inch octagon barrel with a very fine bore with good rifling and some scattered spots of roughness.  This is the first model Allen & Wheelock Side Hammer revolver manufactured early in the period from 1858 to 1863.  The first model features the seven shot cylinder with roll engraved scenes, the cylinder enters from the rear of the gun and the hammer is off set to the right.  It is well marked and in very good to fine overall condition with the metal surfaces mostly plum-brown to gray.  The grips are intact with very minor contusions and use marks.  The cylinder scenes have very fine to near excellent detail showing all the fine graphic elements.   The hammer holds at half and full cock and will rotate the cylinder on some turns when the gun is pointed down.  A scarce first version of these neat little side hammers that underwent many different version changes.  Antique