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Gustave Young Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Revolver

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:4,250.00 USD Estimated At:8,500.00 - 13,000.00 USD
Gustave Young Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Revolver
This is a fine example of a factory engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver. The engraving was done by the Gustave Young shop and was manufactured in 1859. The rear sides and upper barrel flats, frame, loading lever, hammer sides, trigger guard bow, upper and lower backstrap and the butt are factory scroll engraved with a punch dot background. The upper hammer sides have a wolf's head much in the style of Gustave Young. The upper edge above the trigger has a scalloped border. The cylinder is roll engraved with the Texas naval scene and marked "COLT'S PATENT No 1923". The top barrel flat is marked "ADDRESS SAML COLT HARTFORD CT." with a scalloped border. The left side of the frame is engraved "COLT'S / PATENT" and there is a small "2" on the lower left side of the barrel lug. The complete serial number is marked on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, cylinder and backstrap, with a dot either above or below the number designating factory engraving was to be done. The partial serial number, "1923" is marked on the loading lever, arbor and wedge. The barrel and cylinder are finished blue, the loading lever, frame and hammer casehardened and the trigger guard and backstrap are silver plated brass. Brass blade dovetailed front sight, hammer notch rear sight and fitted with smooth varnished one piece walnut grips.
BBL: 7-1/2 inch octagon
Stock:
Gauge: 36 percussion
Finish: blue/casehardened/silver
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 91923


Fine. The barrel retains approximately 40% original blue finish concentrated on the lower flats and in protected areas. There are some strong traces of the original faded case colors on the frame and loading lever, with the remaining metal surfaces having a smooth gray patina. The cylinder number area has a spot of touch up, possibly restamped. The backstrap and trigger guard retain approximately 70% silver plating with the exposed brass showing an aged patina. The grip is excellent with exception of a touch of added varnish on upper left side, some minor lower edge wear and a few scattered minor dings and dents. The engraving and markings remain crisp and clear. The action is excellent. A very fine example of a Gustave Young engraved Colt 1851 Navy revolver.