Antique JM Marlin “O.K.” Deringer 30 RF Side Swing Civil War Era

Serial #1118, .30 Rim Fire black powder, 3 1/8 inch part octagon / part round barrel with a fine mostly bright bore with areas of roughness about half way from the muzzle.  This is the “O.K.” model Deringer manufactured by Marlin and marked “J.M. Marlin / New Haven. CT.” on the left side of the barrel with “O.K.” on top made from 1863-1867.  The Civil War era spur trigger pistol is a side swing.  In fine overall condition the barrel shows perhaps 30-35% of the original bright blue finish toning to gray and silvering on the high edges.  The brass frame has toned with a pleasing mellow patina showing some mild use marks.   The smooth rosewood factory grips are numbered to the gun and rate very good plus showing light handling marks, the left panel is slightly warped, and there is a tiny chip missing at the toe. The barrel is numbered to the gun, it fits the frame firmly although there is slight side play at lockup, and the action remains crisp.  A fine example of these relatively scarce little Marlin vest pocket guns.   Antique