Pre-1898 numbers and dates

[Northtexan]

Thanks to the following:
Mike Strietbeck for dating my New Model Army
Rolling Block for finding my 1875 serial number (253)

I would like to date the following:
1875 Single Action .44 #253
Remington Double Derringer (UMC) #488

Thanks again,
Northtexan

[Northtexan]

Hi Northtexan, the 1875 was first produced in 1874 in 44 Remington serial # 1 to over 15800 about 1879 the 44-40 and 45 long colt calibres were added and the serial numbers went back to # 1 to over 1837. Given your serial number it would be reasonable to assume a manufacture date of 1879-80. As there is very little hard evidence on these firearms, this is only an estimate, but will be pretty close to the mark.

Rolling Block
I wonder if you misread my info. The caliber on the frame reads 44 not 44-40 and the number is 253. This sounds to me more like a date of 1874/75. Wouldn't you think so?

[Northtexan]

Northtexan I apologise if I have made a mistake here. I assumed your pistol to be a later one due to the fact the early ones were not calibre marked as far as I am aware. I have two 1875s serial # 1021 and # 3780 no calibre mark on these. Just to confirm your pistol is an early one, Has it got a star stamped on the barrel just forward of receiver and an R on receiver, left side of gun and these marks are about one half inch apart. Also early ones had the pinched front sight ala 1858 wereas the later ones had a blade foresight. These details indentify the 44 Remington accurately. Any chance of a pic or two?.

ROLLING BLOCK - No mark other than 44 on the left side of the frame between the barrel and the cylinder. The address on the barrel is: E REMINGTON & SONS ILION NY USA. The only other mark is the serial number under the grip.

[Northtexan]

Hi Rolling Block.
I would like to send you photos but do not know how on this board. If you have email I can send jpegs easily. My email is: kc5rsi@charter.net.
Northtexan