RZM Fine Arts and Antiques Inc Presents: Ask the Appraiser

Hi Jon. In the early 1960’s my family purchased an old home in Ridgewood, NJ. This “ thing” was eventually found in the rafters above the basement. It resembles some kind of weapon one might carry in his hand. My father believed it was an antique child’s toy. Have you ever seen something like this? Is it something that is very old? If so, what’s it worth? It’s one of the weirdest things I’ve ever seen. It measures a little more than 4 inches long. I was unable to find any marks on it other than a 4-digit number. I’m really curious about this. Thank you for your anticipated help. So, you know, I drive down to the Ridge diner each week to pick up this paper to read this article. 

Roy / Nanuet

In my business as an antique dealer, I try to remember the odd or rare items I’ve encountered over the years. I’m quite familiar with the item in question. Let me start by explaining this item is definitely not a toy. You possess an antique .32 caliber “Knuckle-Duster” revolver, produced between 1870 to 1882 by James Reid Arms, in Catskill, New York. Fitted with a five shot blued cylinder that is retained by a reverse threaded cylinder pin, it features a brass frame with silver-plating, but on your example only the brass is showing at present. It has decorative scroll and line engraving, as well as a finger loop which doubles as a brass knuckle. You apparently missed the tiny engraving on the left side of the top strap, directly above the cylinder. There it is marked: MY FRIEND PATD. DEC 26, 1865. Your “thing” is one of the most distinctive appearing American revolving cartridge handguns. As stated, the frame acts also as a set of knuckles for hand fighting. More of this model were made than any other Reid firearm; over 50 percent of total production. Also widely known and often termed in the advertising of its era, a “Knuckler,” but not so marked on your gun. The fact you were able to supply the serial number I was able to date the manufacture of this gun to 1875. Of note, this gun was also available in .22 and .41 Rimfire calibers. Though not a rare item per se, as this author has personally owned several examples over the years, it still remains highly collectible due to its odd appearance. The current value, based on condition, of your “Knuckle-Duster” is $800 USD. Thank you for being a dedicated reader of this article.