Colt Civil War Centennial Cased Dueling Set, .22 Short, Consecutive Serial Numbers – Limited 1961 Production
Produced for just one year to honor the Civil War centennial, this factory “dueling set” pairs two single-shot .22 Short revolvers with consecutive serial numbers. Each pistol features a blued 6-inch barrel, polished gold-tone brass frame, and factory scroll-engraved butt-strips, all housed in the original Colt presentation case. The limited run and intact factory casing make this set a standout piece for collectors who value documented rarity and complete originality.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent – Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Rifling Condition: Excellent Rifling – Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Light handling marks are visible on the barrels and brass frames; bores remain bright and clean.
What’s Included
- Factory blue wood presentation case with gray velvet fitted interior and gold Rampant Colt logo
This commemorative set represents one of approximately 24,000 Civil War Centennial revolvers produced in 1961, but far fewer left the factory as matched dueling pairs. Consecutive serial numbers 14234W and 14235W confirm the set’s original pairing and add documented collector appeal.
Though styled as percussion cap revolvers, each pistol is actually a single-shot mechanism hidden inside a solid, partially machined cylinder. The non-functional loading lever and faux cylinder capture mid-19th-century aesthetics while simplifying operation to a straightforward single-action reload.
The combination of blued steel barrels and cylinders with polished gold-tone brass frames delivers striking two-tone contrast. Scroll engraving on the brass butt-strips is factory applied, underscoring the commemorative intent and eliminating the uncertainty that can accompany aftermarket embellishment.
Smooth walnut grips fit flush to the frames, and fixed blade front sights pair with square-notch rears integral to the hammer nose, reflecting Colt’s mid-century rimfire design language. At just one round per pistol, the set was conceived as a ceremonial tribute rather than a practical sidearm, which helps explain the remarkably preserved condition seen today.
The original presentation case remains intact, providing fitted recesses for both revolvers and safeguarding the finish during the past six decades. Its gold Rampant Colt logo and period-correct lining complete the factory package, making display effortless and authentic.