This is a rare antique Remington Beale Army Percussion Revolver which is the beginning of the 1858 army series. There were only an estimated 1900 of these revolvers that were produced from 1861 to 1862 with roughly 50% to 80% being sold to the U.S. Army. This is a 6 shot .44 caliber percussion revolver. It has a 8” octagon barrel with the barrel address reading “BEALS’ PATENT. SEPT. 14.1858 / MANUFACTURED BY REMINGTONS’ ILION. N.Y.”. The barrel address is still sharp. There is no original finish left. Martial inspection marks are found on the barrel and frame. The trigger guard has some damage and is bent to the left ( possible period modification). The cylinder is off of a later 1958 series New Model and has safety notches. The grips have multiple chips and dings with cracks up both sides. Mechanically in fine condition with strong springs, proper timing and lockup. The Remington 1858 series was the second most common revolver in the American Civil War behind the Colt Model 1860. The Remington was known to be the superior revolver with its full frame it could handle a higher powder charge. Its sights are in the frame as opposed to the hammer, making it easier to aim. For the soldiers who were lucky enough to have a second cylinder, reloading was much quicker with a simple cylinder swap. The 1858’s became the preferred revolver by nearly all who used them. The James Brothers and their Confederate Irregulars were known to use captured Remington 1858’s at times. This rare revolver is a beautiful piece of history that would certainly be right at home in any serious American Civil War collection. This is an antique so no PAL is required for purchase. Buyer must be 18 and able to prove it. Shipping is available at buyers expense. All used firearms should be inspected by a competent gunsmith prior to any form of use.