# 4094187

Stunning Civil War Era Civilian Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver with Special Order Antique Checkered Ivory Grip

$ 24949.99

This highly attractive Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver, manufactured in 1863, features the distinctive “I” suffix stamped above and below the main serial numbers on the barrel and frame, denoting a special order grip—here, a finely executed one-piece factory checkered grip. Such features suggest the revolver may have been specially ordered by, or for, a Union Army officer, as the Model 1851 Navy was the standard sidearm of the Civil War period.

The Colt “Revolving Belt Pistol of Naval Caliber” was designed between 1847 and 1850, originally marketed as the “Ranger Model,” and enjoyed a production run of approximately 215,348 units between 1850 and 1873. This example is equipped with a brass cone front sight, the barrel top marked “-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-,” “COLTS/PATENT” stamped on the left side of the frame, a “2” marked on the left side of the trigger guard bow, and the standard Naval Battle of Campeche scene on the cylinder.

All visible serial numbers match and are found on the loading lever, barrel, wedge, cylinder pin, cylinder, frame, trigger guard, and butt, confirming its originality and integrity.

Condition

Exceptionally fine, retains 90% plus original blue finish on the barrel, 60% plus original blue finish on the cylinder with smooth brown patina on the balance, vivid original case colors showing in some of the protected areas with a slightly muted appearance on the balance, 50% plus original silver plating concentrated on the trigger guard/front strap with an untouched tarnished original appearance and attractive bright golden patina on the balance of the exposed brass, retaining all of the cylinder safety pins with sharp cylinder scene, markings and edges in the metal overall. Grip is very fine with crisp checkering, a few darkened age line cracks visible on both sides, and tight fitment. Mechanically excellent. This attractive Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver with special order checkered grip would make a fine addition to any Colt collection!