Marlin XXX Standard 1872 Pocket Revolver

[SSG Scott]

Not long ago I came into the possession of 2 Marlin XXX Standard 1872 Pocket Revolvers. They both have short fluted cylinders. One has Pearl or Ivory Grips. I have researched them through Marlin and on line and found ones that were in poor condition going at auction for about $300.00. I have taken them both apart and verified that all 3 serial numbers on each pistol match (meaning that both pistols are made up of their original serialized parts). The one difference between these pistols and the ones I have seen on the internet (other than the fact that my two are in much better condition) is that mine are completely engraved. Considering that they were built in the late 1800's, I am guessing that this was done by hand. I can't provide pictures right now. But I will be able to in the not to distant future. Does anyone have any information regarding these pistols? I am NOT looking to sell, as they were a gift. Also, the drama that ensued with a customer who saw the firearms when I had the pistols appraised at a gun shop made me think twice about their value. Any Info would be appreciated!!

 

[Jim K]

I have owned a couple of those little .30 Marlins and they are pretty well made guns, quite a cut above most of the type. Engraving was a common option on those guns and doesn't add a lot of value. In those days, labor costs were low and so engraving added only a little to the cost of the gun.

I would put top value at about $500, and that would be in near perfect condition. The unfluted cylinder models run a bit more. Most were made in .30 RF short, but the longer cylinder models were for .30 RF Long. Even though several makers chambered guns for those cartridges, both are scarce and expensive on the cartridge collector market. AFAIK, no one has manufactured .30 RF for many decades.

Jim