Civil War, Remington, 8th Illinois Cavalry

A genuine American Civil War, Old Model, Remington, .44 caliber, 6 shot percussion revolver. A true veteran, connected by serial number to the 8^th Illinois Cavalry.

Only about 6,000 of the ‘Old Model’, .44 caliber revolvers were made in 1861 before being replaced by the New Model. With a barrel length of 8 inches, a solid frame and a six-shot cylinder, it is quite a robust and hefty revolver.

The revolver is in good condition and working order. All the iron work has an even, plum patina and the brass trigger guard looks like it has not been polished since it last saw service. Parts of the two-line barrel address is still visible, as are various military inspector marks on the frame, cylinder and trigger guard.

The walnut grips show signs of serious use and the outline of the final inspector’s cartouche is still visible.

The serial number ‘8288’ is found on the barrel under the rammer, on the back of the cylinder and on the frame under the left grip. See Photos

The Springfield Research Service data base identifies this Remington as being issued to Company K of the 8^th Illinois Cavalry.

The 8^th Illinois Cavalry had an outstanding reputation through-out the Civil War and was involved in many of the most notable actions. For example, the battles of Antietam, Fredericksburg and the most famous battle of them all, Gettysburg. The 8^th were also involved in the hunt for President Lincoln’s assassin, John Wilkes Booth and also provided President Lincoln’s honour guard, while he lay in state.

In his memoirs, the famed Confederate Cavalry commander, Colonel John S. Mosby (1833 – 1916) aka ‘Grey Ghost’ called the Union’s 8^th Illinois Volunteer Cavalry, “the best cavalry regiment in the Army of the Potomac”.

Many years later a grandson of one of Mosby’s rangers once asked if it was true that the Yankees were cowards, who ran at the sight of the Confederates. The old man replied “Son, no one who ever fought against the 8th Illinois Cavalry could have such an imbecile idea as that”.

All-in-all very good example of a genuine American Civil War cavalry pistol.

Sold as a collector item only.

Please note that there are licensing requirements for this item in some Australian jurisdictions.

Price includes postage within Australia, lay buy available.