1485

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

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:900.00 USD Estimated At:1,800.00 - 2,750.00 USD
U.S. Colt Model 1851 Navy-Army Contract Percussion Revolver
This is an example of a desirable Model 1851 Navy-Army contract revolver that was purchased by the U.S. Army prior to the Civil War. These U.S. Model 1851s were issued to the 1st and 2nd Cavalry Regiments and were used extensively in campaigns against Native Americans 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 worn down pin front sight and notch hammer rear sight. The left side of the trigger guard is marked with the letters "V" and "M". Sub-inspector initials are stamped on most of the components, with a period scribed "JM" on the butt. 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-". Matching serial number on the barrel, frame trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder, with the partial serial number (4263) stamped on the loading lever. The wedge is numbered to a different gun (0318). Fitted with a one piece smooth grip with both original lightly visible cartouches remaining.
BBL: 7 1/2 inch octagon
Stock:
Gauge: 36
Finish: blue/casehardened/silver
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 64263


Very good. The revolver has a smooth period cleaned bright gray patina with some scattered minor pitting. The right side of the muzzle is worn (possibly by saddle wear). Approximately 60% of the cylinder engraving remains. The brass has a mellow patina. The grip is fine with some minor dings and scratches, along with very good, lightly visible original cartouches. Mechanically needs work as the cylinder does not rotate when action is cycled.