Synopsis:

Classic U.S. Army Contract Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver in .36 caliber with sharp naval cylinder scene, matching serial numbers where visible, and correctly cartouched grips, made circa 1857.

Description:

U.S. Army Contract Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver, serial number 73827, manufactured pre-Civil War, circa 1857 in the well-documented 42,000-80,000 serial number range. This classic .36 caliber six-shot revolver features the standard 7½" octagonal barrel with clear single-line barrel address reading "ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY." The revolver displays external serial number matching throughout, with 73827 clearly visible on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, loading lever assembly, and cylinder. The cylinder retains the famous factory-engraved naval battle scene depicting the victory of the Texas Navy over Mexico, a signature feature of all Colt Navy revolvers. The left grip has the boxed MM inspection cartouche; cartouche barely visible on the right grip. This U.S. Army Contract Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver represents one of the most iconic and widely used sidearms of the American frontier period, with this particular example showing correct preservation of its original factory specifications and military markings.

Condition:

The steel components exhibit an honest blue/gray patina, approximately 60% original blue. Much of the color case hardening remains on the frame. The brass trigger guard and backstrap show the characteristic warm patina of age. The two-piece walnut grip remains solid and properly fitted, the cartouches faded but visible. The action functions correctly with proper timing, and the bore remains bright with strong rifling, indicating careful maintenance throughout its 165+ year history. One of the scarcer early U.S. military revolvers, particularly in this condition!