D This is an early Merwin and Hulbert Single Action Pocket revolver in .38 Caliber, 3.5" barrel, 5 shot cylinder, and nickel plated finish.  The backstrap is marked "C.P.D. 12."  Obviously, this stands for "Police Department" but which city?  Of course, Cincinnatti, Cleveland, and Chicago are all possibilities that immediately come to mind.  While I can't say for sure, based on original M&H documentation, I think there is a reasonable possibility this stands for "Chelsea Police Department".  Chelsea is a small city located across the Mystic River from Boston. It was settled in 1624 and became a city in the year 1857. Why Chelsea? About a year ago, I was attending a show where I found a small red booklet published by Merwin & Hulbert containing testimonials.  On page 8 of this booklet is a testimonial from the Police Chief of Chelsea, Massachussets, Nelson Sibley, in which he specifically states his department's use of .38 caliber Merwin and Hulbert revolvers:

"I WOULD SAY THAT THE POLICE DEPARTMENT OF CHELSEA ARE ARMED WITH MERWIN, HULBERT & CO. .38 CAL REVOLVER, AND THEY GIVE GREAT SATISFACTION, AS THEY ARE EASY OF ADJUSTMENT, AND DO NOT GET OUT OF ORDER EACH TIME A CARTRIDGE IS EXPLODED. THE OFFICERS AS A WHOLE PRAISE THEM VERY HIGHLY"

See Also Photos.

Overall condition is NRA Antique Fine Plus Condition retaining 90% original nickel finish.  The hammer has 30% faded case colors.  Early hard rubber dog's head grips with good checkering overall.  There are no chips, cracks, or repairs to the grips with perfect fit to the frame.  The cylinder has the early style scooped flutes.  Sliding loading gate is still intact with it original stepped cone finger knob.  Backstrap is hand engraved C.P.D. 12. Right side of the frame is marked "38 CAL" while the left side is marked "Merwin Hulbert & Co. New York U.S.A."  The top of the barrel is marked with Hopkins & Allen Patent dates from 1874 to 1877.  Hopkins & Allen manufactured all of Merwin, Hulbert & Co.'s revolvers and are no doubt, the some of the highest quality arms H&A ever produced.  Mechanically, the action still works good with a hint of play to the barrel/frame fit.  Bore is in good condition with nice rifling and a few pits.   Very good screws, pins.  All markings and knurlings are Excellent. 

This is a nice example of an early M&H Pocket revolver with some great 19th century police markings.

Item# 0245

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