Collectors consider this a direct-line descendant from the original Civil War era .44 caliber, 1860 Colt. They feel these are more authentic than the 2nd and 3rd generation Colts, finished by Colt.
In 1853 Samuel Colt traveled overseas and licensed Belgian gun manufacturers to produce his revolvers. Then one hundred years later, these companies regrouped and began producing this six shooter with modern steel. The new pistols were marketed as 1960 New Model Army and were stamped Made in Belgium. At that time the upcoming centennial of the American Civil War, and no reproductions for reenactors all pointed to an obvious need. There to answer that need were two important ingredients, original Colt equipment waiting silently in Belgium for nearly a century and a young man by the name of William B. Edwards. Edwards was one of the principals of Centennial Arms Corp. of Chicago. Edwards realized there was a ready market for a second issue of the Colt Army. Edwards entrusted Fabriques de Armes Unies de Li_ge in Belgium with the production of the New Army.
This 1860/1960 NEW MODEL ARMY is mechanically perfect. At one time there must have been a problem with the stop bolt but it is OK now. The cylinder does have a track around it, otherwise the finish is in
GOOD CONDITION. The bore is
BRIGHT AND SHINY. The action is the most positive I have ever encountered and it locks up tight. This gun is serial number (805). That means it is a very early production and does come with some very special features.
First is the box. It is a sturdy box but even so to have survived these past 57 years is exceptional.
Next and more importantly is the fact that the cylinder has no engraving, this is a rarity as it was suppose to be engraved.
This is the
MILITARY MODEL. The frame, hammer, and loading leaver are color case hardened.
