Lot 3117

Consecutively Serialized Pair of Colt "Thuer" Derringers

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Consecutively Serialized Pair of Colt "Thuer" Derringers

Estimate: $20,000 - $35,000

Starting Bid: $18,000

(0 Bids)

by Rock Island Auction Company
August 23, 2026 9:00 AM CDT
Live Auction
3600 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX, US 76021

Exceptional, Well-Documented, Factory Engraved, Consecutively Serialized, Cased Pair of Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringers Pictured in "Colt Engraving" -A) Factory Engraved Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer Exceptional, Well-Documented, Factory Engraved, Consecutively Serialized, Cased Pair of Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringers Pictured in "Colt Engraving" -A) Factory Engraved Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer The No. 3, Third Model, or "Thuer" derringer patent was granted on 12 July 1870, and the model would go on to become Colt's most popular derringer model by far, being produced until 1912. By the end of production in 1912, approximately 48,000 of these derringers were produced, though consecutively numbered pairs with this level of embellishment remain scarce, especially in the extremely high condition these two show. This rare pair of derringers is pictured in "Colt Engraving" by R.L. Wilson on page 265, where the derringer bearing serial number "18" is incorrectly listed as serial number "13". Colt's Third Model derringer was the first design for a derringer pistol developed in-house by the company, with both their First and Second Models having been designs acquired from their takeover of the National Arms Co. The Third Model derringer was a total redesign which was done by a longtime Colt gunsmith, F. Alexander Thuer. Thuer is credited with three different patents during his time with Colt, the first for a metallic cartridge conversion system for percussion revolvers, the second for tools for reloading the cartridges for said conversion, and the third for these derringer pistols. The derringers were extremely popular in both Britain and North America, probably due, in large part, to the greatly expanding industrialized urban centers in both. Such highly populated areas led to increases in crime, especially mugging, leading to a strong desire for many to carry a concealed form of protection such as these pistols. This pair is certainly one of the finest engraved, consecutively numbered pairs in existence. Despite their two-digit serial numbers, this outstanding pair show the later production features such as the sloping hammer and the slightly more open grip profile. They both feature beautifully executed factory floral scroll engraving which encompasses approximately one-third of the surfaces. They have the "-COLT-" marking in italics with dot accents on top of the barrels. The serial numbers are marked on the left side of the grip frames along with a "P" and on the bottom of the barrels. They are both fitted with blade front sights and a very attractive set of smooth pearl grips. The pair is housed in a deluxe rosewood case with blank brass presentation plate inlaid in the lid, French fitted tan velvet interior, a combination screwdriver and cleaning rod, a key, and a selection of cartridges.

Manufacturer: Colt

Model: #3 Derringer

BBL: 2 1/2 inch round

Gauge: 41 Rimfire

Finish: nickel

Grips: pearl

Serial Number18

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

B) Factory Engraved Colt Third Model "Thuer" Derringer See "A".

Manufacturer: Colt

Model: #3 Derringer

BBL: 2 1/2 inch round

Gauge: 41 Rimfire

Finish: nickel

Grips: pearl

Serial Number19

Class: Curio & Relic Handgun

  • Condition: A) Exceptionally fine, retains 90% plus of the original nickel finish with some scattered specks of light flaking and crisp engraving. The grips are very fine with a few very light edge chips and otherwise only the slightest handling marks. Mechanically excellent. The case is exceptionally fine with minimal handling evidence on the exterior and some mild staining on the interior lining. B) Exceptionally fine, retains 90% plus of the original nickel finish with some scattered specks of light flaking, a few high spots with very light wear, and crisp engraving. The grips are fine with the right panel having a glued crack and otherwise only the slightest handling marks. Mechanically excellent. An incredible and scarce pair of factory engraved, consecutively serialized Colt "Thuer" derringers!

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000