3290

Fine U.S. Colt Model 1851 Navy-Army Contract Percussion Revolver

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:3,250.00 USD Estimated At:6,500.00 - 9,500.00 USD
Fine U.S. Colt Model 1851 Navy-Army Contract Percussion Revolver
This is a nice example of a 3rd Model 1851 Navy-Army revolver manufactured in 1857 in the 42000-80000 serial number range purchased by the U.S. Army prior to the Civil War. Revolvers in this serial number range were issued to the 1st and 2nd Cavalry Regiments and were used extensively in campaigns against hostile Indians prior to the Civil War. This pistol had the blue barrel and cylinder, silver plated brass backstrap and small round trigger guard and casehardened frame, loading lever and hammer. Equipped with a small brass cone front sight and hammer notch hammer rear sight. The left side of the trigger guard is marked with the letter "V". The sub-inspector initial, "M" is stamped on the top of the left rear of the barrel and bottom rear of the trigger guard, "T" on the top of the backstrap and "S" on the cylinder. The left side of the frame is correctly marked "COLTS / PATENT / U.S." The cylinder is roll engraved with the naval battle scene. The top barrel flat is marked "- ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY.-". Fitted with smooth one piece walnut grips with a cartouche in an oval on each side, "WAT" on the right side, "OWA" on the left and "3" on the left bottom and "9" on the right. There is also a small "C" inspectors mark on the bottom of the left side. Matching serial number on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder and the partial serial number "3313" on the wedge, loading lever and arbor pin.
BBL: 7 1/2 inch octagon
Stock:
Gauge: 36
Finish: blue/casehardened/silver
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 73313


Very fine. The barrel retains approximately 50% original finish, (strongest on the lower flats) mixed with smooth plum patina. The cylinder has a smooth brown patina with the markings and scene clear and crisp. There is some minor pitting under the patent marking. The left side of the frame shows strong vivid original case colors, faded colors on the right side and the balance having a smooth brown patina. The brass has a natural aged patina. The grip is very good with some minor wear on the lower edges, a few minor dings on the bottom right side and a few small minor dings overall. The cartouches are fading somewhat, but visible. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. A very nice, totally original U.S. Navy-Army contract Model 1851 Navy revolver.