Cataloger’s Choice: Highlights from Cowan's Arms, Armor & Militaria Online Sale
Cowan’s is pleased to present this season’s Cataloger’s Choice, a curated selection of standout pieces from our upcoming Arms, Armor & Militaria Online sale.
This December auction brings together an exceptional range of historical militaria, Civil War–era collectibles, antique firearms, and specialty sporting arms, offering unique opportunities for seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts alike.
From rare 19th-century long arms and period uniforms to finely crafted modern sporting pieces and sought-after replica revolvers, our catalogers have identified several lots that exemplify the craftsmanship, history, and desirability that define this sale. Whether you are searching for Civil War militaria, collectible rifles, historic sidearms, or museum-quality artifacts, these expert-selected highlights demonstrate the breadth and depth of this diverse auction.
Lot 6067 | Colt Model 1877 Lightning .38 Colt Revolver Nickel Etched Panel
Colt Model 1877 Lightning Revolver with original Nickel Plated Finish, Long Knurled cylinder pin, and built without the ejector rod assembly. Though they developed a poor reputation for longevity and reliability, Colt's first production double action revolver remained in production into the early 20th Century. During its production run, the revolver had to compete with the array of inexpensive double action revolvers of Belgian and British make arriving from overseas. Never adapted for smokeless cartridges or updated to eliminate its shortcomings, the revolver still found its way into the holsters and waistbands of famed outlaws and lawmen in the Old West. This example, produced in 1879 without the ejector rod assembly and possessing the appropriate long-knurled cylinder pin, exemplifies the more compact variants of this handgun. The nickel plating and durable hardrubber grips made it suitable for carry both openly and concealed. Better still, it displays good timing, a rare sight on an 1877.
Contact Barrett Sharpnack: 513.666.4696 | barrettsharpnack@freemansauction
Lot 6005 | Confederate Rebuilt L.G.&Y. Contract US Special Model 1861 Rifle Musket Marked "Z", American Civil War
Coming Soon!
Contact Tim Carey: 513.666.4984 | [email protected]
Explore the full sale and discover why Cowan’s continues to be a trusted destination for arms and militaria auctions—where history, craftsmanship, and collecting intersect.