Manufactured in 1863. Samuel Colt's New Model Revolving Police Pistol came out just in time for the American Civil War and would have been an excellent sidearm for a police officer in one of the new police departments popping up in cities across the country or as a private sidearm for a volunteer serving in the Union Army. The '62 Police offered more firepower in a package the same size as the very popular Model 1849 Pocket. They also have the round barrel and improved toothed loading lever of the Model 1860 Army revolver and very attractive fluted and stepped cylinders. They are considered by many to be the most attractive of all of Colt's percussion revolvers. This distinctive example has the standard markings, including matching serial numbers on the barrel, frame, and grip straps. The cylinder is a mismatched number replacement. It has the "E" designation for factory engraving by the lower serial numbers and stunning entwining floral scroll engraving with beaded backgrounds on the barrel, frame, hammer, and grip straps. An eagle head is among the engraving above the wedge on the left, and the hammer has a wolf's head motif. The engraving also extends to the full length of the loading lever arm which features spiraling foliate bands along with scrollwork on the flats. The left side of the grip is engraved in raised relief with a Zouave wearing a fez with a tassel. Zouave uniforms and drills in America were popularized by Elmer E. Ellsworth and drew inspiration from the Zouave units from French North African that gained international recognition for their performance in the Crimean War and wore distinctive Arab influenced uniforms. Many Zouave units were formed early in the Civil War, including Colonel Ellsworth's own Fire Zouaves (11th New York Infantry). The case contains a cap tin, two cartridge packs marked for "Colt's New Model Revolving Police Pistol," some balls and bullets, spare nipples, a blued Colt ball/bullet mold, L-shaped combination tool, a key, and an eagle pattern pocket flask.

Very good with crisp engraving, 25% original blue finish in the protected areas of the barrel, refinished replacement cylinder, 20% original case colors, traces of silver plating, smooth gray and brown patina on the balance of the iron, attractively aged patina on the brass, and mild overall wear. The grip is fine and has distinct carving, attractive patina and natural grain, minor age cracks, and slight shrinkage. Mechanically fine. The relined case and the accessories are very good with some storage wear. Overall, a very attractive case set.