Exceptional Allen & Wheelock Center Hammer Lipfire Navy Revolver

Serial #366, .36 Lipfire, 6" octagon barrel with an excellent, bright bore.  This is a very well-preserved revolver that has retained 75-80% of the original bright blue finish, with the balance flaked to an almost iridescent patina on the forward portion of the frame, and to a smooth plum-brown and gray patina along the forward part of the barrel.  Original color case-hardening can still be seen on the matching numbered loading gate and hammer, while the cylinder pin retains most of the original blue finish.  The walnut grips are both numbered to the gun on the interior, and have most of the original varnish remaining, although some flaking has occurred, mostly around the screw bolster on the right side, and there are some further handling marks and bruises on the left panel.  The action is tight and fully functional.  Only about 500 of these revolvers were made before pressure was exerted by S&W to cease production due to patent infringement.  This example is in excellent condition, with an unusually high degree of original finish remaining.  Antique