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An authentic antique 19th-century American pocket revolver, manufactured by J. M. Marlin of New Haven, Connecticut, USA, circa 1872–1878. This revolver is a five-shot .30 Rimfire (.30RF) caliber, designed as a compact self-defense sidearm of its era.
Clear barrel and frame markings include:
“J. M. MARLIN, NEW HAVEN, CT U.S.A. PAT. JULY 1, 1878”
“XXX STANDED 1872”
The revolver features a brass frame with ornate hand engraving, with additional decorative scrollwork on both the barrel and cylinder. The original wooden grips remain intact, showing natural patina consistent with its 19th-century age.
Highlights & Collectability:
Antique firearm: Over 140 years old, manufactured in the 1870s
Rare engraved variant: Far less common than plain-frame models, highly desirable among collectors
Caliber: .30RF (Rimfire) – a classic pocket revolver cartridge of the period
Dual value: Represents both historical weaponry and fine 19th-century American decorative craftsmanship
Engraved Marlin revolvers in .30RF caliber are exceptionally scarce on today’s market, standing as both a rare antique firearm and a work of art from America’s gunmaking heritage.
