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U.S. Navy Inspected Colt Model 1851 Navy Cartridge Conversion Revolver

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military / Hand Guns - Revolvers Start Price:1,200.00 USD Estimated At:2,500.00 - 3,750.00 USD
U.S. Navy Inspected Colt Model 1851 Navy Cartridge Conversion Revolver
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U.S. Navy Inspected Colt Model 1851 Navy Cartridge Conversion Revolver

This is an example of a U.S. Navy contract Colt Model 1851 Navy Revolver which was subsequently factory converted to fire the .38 centerfire cartridge on order for the U.S. Navy. Only a few hundred of these Model 1851 revolvers were returned to the Colt factory for conversion to metallic cartridge and the conversions were based on the Richards-Mason design. The revolver has the distinctive iron back strap and trigger guard found on U.S. Navy contract revolvers. The left side of the frame has the two line patent marking stamped over "COLTS/PATENT" along with "U.S." The top barrel flat is marked with the two line New York address and the lower barrel flat has the inspection mark "R.W.M." with an anchor (Cdr. Richard W. Meade, USN inspector 1860-67), which denotes acceptance of the conversion. The left side of the trigger guard is stamped "36 CAL" and the cylinder has the Navy battle scene. The butt is stamped "U.S.N./J.L.H." (Cdr. James L. Henderson, USN inspector 1858-61). The serial number "58716" appears on the frame and grip straps. The cylinder has the numbers "61696" and "8716", the loading gate has the number "8716" and the barrel has the numbers "58877" and "716". Fitted with a one piece grip.

Manufucture: Colt
Model: 1851 Navy
BBL: 7 1/2 inch octagon
Stock:
Guage: 38 CF
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 58716

Fine. The revolver retains 30% original blue finish (mostly on the barrel) with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The frame and hammer retain traces of original case colors. Some mild pitting is present on the cylinder with much of the cylinder scene remaining. The grip is good with a number of minor handling marks. Mechanically fine.