Welcome to right now’s Photo of the Day! Right here we now have an especially uncommon Colt Second Mannequin derringer manufactured from American Sterling Firm’s experimental silver alloy round 1872. Serial 3640 is one in all an estimated 100 or fewer made and lacks the standard “AM. Sterling” marking.
Helen L. Macker of Boston invented “American Sterling Metallic” and patented it January 23, 1872. Her alloy seemed like sterling silver however had energy corresponding to metal. “The Science Report for 1873” paperwork Colt Armory assessments exhibiting the alloy had thrice metal’s tenacity. Metal wire broke at 3,000 pulls whereas sterling metallic wire required 82,000 pulls.
The Colt ledger from August 27, 1872 data: “Presentation 1 Natnl. Der. Pistol manufactured from Sterling Metallic from Am. Sterling Co. $4.75.” This seems to be the one ledger reference, suggesting restricted experimental manufacturing.
American Sterling Firm operated from a Glastonbury manufacturing unit exterior Hartford, taking up in 1871 with Leavitt Hunt as president.
Solely 4 American Sterling marked Colt derringers are recognized: 3635, 3642, 6415, and 3847. This unmarked 3640 sits two serial numbers from 3642, which was lengthy misidentified as stable sterling silver earlier than George S. Lewis Jr. accurately recognized it as American Sterling alloy.
Macker’s patent notes “This compound won’t tarnish with age or climate” – confirmed by this 150-year-old pistol remaining vibrant. Silver plating tarnished and flaked, however Macker’s alloy maintained look with out plating.
American Sterling manufacturing ended round 1877. Most recognized alloy derringers bear Sterling markings, making this unmarked instance even scarcer.
Most of our POTDs make the most of pictures from our mates at Rock Island Auction Company, the premier firearms public sale in the USA. Take a while to browse their current auctions – who is aware of, possibly you’ll discover a piece of historical past to take residence!
“Silver Alloy Colt Second Mannequin Derringer Pistol.” Rock Island Public sale, www.rockislandauction.com/element/4096/1132/silver-alloy-colt-second-model-derringer-pistol. Accessed 23 Feb. 2026.
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