This is an example of a factory conversion of a Model 1861 Navy percussion revolver. The conversion is the same as the Richards-Mason conversion done on the Model 1860 Army revolvers. It consists of plugging the loading lever hole and attaching of an ejector housing by a screw running through the left side of the barrel lug, modification of the cylinder, identical to the 1851 Navy, a rimfire firing pin is attached through a center slot on the face of the hammer, installation of a breech plate without integral rear sight and a loading gate. Colt manufactured some 2,200 of this model in the mid-1870s. The barrel has the one-line New York address, the left side of the frame is marked "COLTS/PATENT," and the cylinder is roll engraved with the naval engagement scene. "263/1" is stamped on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. "263" is stamped on the barrel and cylinder. Fitted with a smooth varnished one-piece walnut grip.

Very good plus. The revolver has a smooth brown-gray patina with the barrel retaining 20% original blue finish and much of the cylinder scene remains. The grip straps retain strong traces of original silver plating in the protected areas. The grip is fine with high edge wear and dings and scratches with most of the original varnish remaining. Mechanically excellent.