Gun history

[henryg]

I recently found a chrome cap & ball pistol while cleaning out my late mother's house. On the top it reads, "Patented Sept 14, 1858; Remington & Sons, Ilion, New York, USA; New-Model". On the underside of the barrel is what appears to be a serial number 123730. Is it possible to know when this was manufactured and who may have used it, i.e. Union Army, etc?
Thanks much, HenryG

[john hamilton]

What you have is known to collectors as the 1863 New Model Army. It was very widely used during and after the war. With your serial number I think it was made after the war. The piece would not have been plated for military use but many were civilian models. Clint Eastwood often used them in his western movies.

[henryg]

John,
Thanks so much for your prompt reply. It is very helpful.
Regards, Henry