*USA, Civil War Era - 1861, Boxed Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver, .36 Calibre, Serial No. 194911, with Accessories, Obsolete Calibre*
A Colt Model 1851 Navy percussion revolver of .36 calibre, serial number 194911, manufactured in the United States in 1861 during the American Civil War. The revolver is fitted with its correct octagonal barrel bearing the “ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA” marking to the top flat, a six-shot percussion cylinder with worn naval engagement scene, brass trigger guard and backstrap, steel frame, and one-piece walnut grip. Serial numbers are matching to the frame, trigger guard and backstrap, with a correct partial serial visible to the cylinder, consistent with Colt factory practice. The revolver measures approximately 32.5 cm overall, with an octagonal barrel of approximately 18.2 cm. It is presented in a fitted wooden case with its original key, with velvet lining and a Colt Navy trade label to the lid, together with a selection of accessories including a copper powder flask, bullet mould, cap tin, nipple key, tools and wedge, all included as found.
Historical Note:
The Colt Model 1851 Navy is one of the most iconic percussion revolvers of the 19th century and was widely carried by officers, cavalrymen, and private individuals during the American Civil War. Despite its “Navy” designation referring to calibre rather than service branch, the model saw extensive use across land and naval forces on both sides of the conflict. By 1861, Colt production was focused heavily on fulfilling wartime contracts, and revolvers from this period are firmly associated with early Civil War service. The balanced handling and proven accuracy of the 1851 Navy made it one of the most respected sidearms of its era, and surviving Civil War–dated examples with matching serials remain highly sought after.
*Condition*
The revolver cocks and dry-fires, however the cylinder does not index. Metal surfaces display general patination, surface oxidation, and wear commensurate with a Civil War–era revolver, with no evidence of modern refinishing. The grip shows honest handling wear without major cracks. The fitted wooden case shows age-related wear, marks and fading, with internal partitions intact; accessories are present but are not guaranteed original to the revolver and are included as found. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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