Make: Marlin Firearms Company

Model: No. 32 Standard, 1875

Serial Number: 12

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1875–1887, Antique

Caliber: .32 Rimfire

Action Type: Single Action, Tip-Up Revolver, Spur Trigger

Barrel Length: 3" Solid Rib

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small rounded blade fixed to the barrel rib. The rear sight is a simple v-notch leaf set in the topstrap just behind the hinge, typical of Marlin pocket revolvers of this period.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece mother-of-pearl panels secured by a single screw. Both panels exhibit attractive natural iridescence with swirling pearl figure and warm coloration. There are scattered age-related surface lines and minor handling marks consistent with period mother-of-pearl, with no large chips or structural cracks observed. Overall, the grips present very well and are well fitted to the frame, in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Engraved silver/nickel plating with fire blued trigger and hammer.

Finish Originality: Original

Overall Condition: The revolver retains a significant portion of its original plated finish, with visible thinning, light flaking, and scattered areas of wear consistent with age and careful handling over nearly 150 years. The factory engraving remains crisp and legible throughout the frame, cylinder, and barrel flats, showing attractive scroll coverage with softened high points. The fire blued trigger and hammer retain vibrant color with faint muting. Screw heads remain serviceable, and markings are clear. Overall, the pistol rates in Very Good antique condition with strong visual appeal.

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with visible rifling. There is scattered oxidation and light erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6.5/10.

Mechanics: The action cocks and releases correctly. The tip-up barrel hinge functions as intended, and the cylinder indexes properly. Lockup is appropriate for the model and period. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes with a wooden presentation case with fitted interior, one empty period Winchester .32 Rimfire cartridge box, and an Eley Bro. London cap tin.

Our Assessment: Marlin’s No. 32 Standard tip-up revolver represents one of the firm’s most successful pocket pistol designs of the late 19th century, produced at a time when compact rimfire revolvers dominated the personal defense market. Introduced in the 1870s as part of the Model 1875 series, it combined a simple and reliable tip-up action with solid metallurgy and clean lines, positioning it as a direct competitor to contemporary offerings from Smith and Wesson and other New England makers. Factory engraved examples were offered at a premium and were often purchased as presentation pieces or upscale personal sidearms.

This example is distinguished by its factory engraving, original plated finish, fire blued accents, and mother-of-pearl grips, elevating it well beyond a standard production pocket revolver. The low serial number suggests early production, while the engraved surfaces retain strong definition and the overall presentation remains elegant and balanced, showing honest wear consistent with age. As an intact, factory engraved Marlin pocket revolver in antique condition, it represents a highly collectible example of Victorian-era American firearms craftsmanship.