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Rare Adams Large-bore Model 1851 Solid-frame Percussion Revolverby Deane, Adams & Deane, 30 King William Street, London Bridgeengland, Circa 1851–1854
£1,850 $2,500 €2,129
An original and highly desirable Model 1851 Adams solid-frame percussion revolver, retailed by Deane, Adams & Deane of 30 King William Street, London Bridge, the principal early commercial partners of Robert Adams and among the most important London firms associated with the development and promotion of the Adams revolver system.
This example is of the scarcer large-bore form, described in period British terminology as .38 bore (approximately .50 calibre by modern measurement). It retains the characteristic robust solid frame, five-shot cylinder with safety pins between the nipples, and a rifled barrel, all engineered to withstand the powerful double-action-only mechanism for which the early Adams revolvers were renowned.
The barrel is crisply engraved:
“DEANE ADAMS & DEANE
30 KING WILLIAM ST
LONDON BRIDGE”
confirming London retail during the early 1850s. The cylinder is clearly stamped “No. 4980” with an accompanying inspection letter, consistent with original worksh...op numbering. The revolver is a true Model 1851 Adams, correctly predating the Beaumont-Adams improvement of 1856, and shows no evidence of later conversion.
The revolver retains its original one-piece chequered walnut grip, well-shaped and undamaged, showing only natural handling wear consistent with age. Metal surfaces display an attractive, untouched patina with light commercial scroll engraving to the frame and butt cap. Correct London commercial proof marks are present and appropriate for the period.
Historical Context
The Model 1851 Adams revolver represents Britain’s first truly successful solid-frame service revolver and a decisive departure from earlier Colt-type open-frame designs. During the Crimean War period (1853–1856), Adams revolvers were widely carried by British officers through private purchase, valued for their strength, reliability, and formidable stopping power. Early large-bore examples retailed by Deane, Adams & Deane are notably scarcer than later Beaumont-Adams models and are increasingly sought after by collectors of early British percussion revolvers.
Condition
Good original condition throughout; action operational; cylinder indexes correctly; grip sound; honest age-related wear; no modern restoration or refinishing.
Calibre .38 bore (approx. .50 calibre)
Barrel length : 7''/18cm
Overall length : 34cm
A strong, original, collector-grade example of the classic Model 1851 Adams revolver, correctly identified, London-proved, and retailed by one of the most important firms associated with early Adams production.
Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria, Portobello Road
WE are open every Saturday between 9.30 - 3.30pm in Chelsea Galleries 67 Portobello Road London.
We are at the front of the gallery, on the 1st aisle.
Web page:-
https://peterharrisclocks.com/welcome/
Internal Reference: P01
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1195859
Dateline of this antique is 19th Century
Antique SA1195859 shown on this page was made in the 19th Century. For historical context, the timeline below highlights the period when it was created:
19th Century
ANTIQUE SA1195859
CONTACT DETAILS OF SELLER:
Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria
We specialise in Flintlock pistols, Muskets, Clocks & Watches
London
United Kingdom
Tel: 07930 536818
EMAIL SELLER
Send direct to seller
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The Rare Adams Large-Bore Model 1851 Solid-Frame Percussion RevolverBy Deane, Adams & Deane, 30 King William Street, London BridgeEngland, circa 1851–1854 has been added to your saved items.
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