Manufactured in 1857, this is an example of a Third Model 1851 Navy percussion revolver with the scarce 4 screw frame, factory cut for a shoulder stock (absent). The revolver features a small round trigger guard which is equipped with the scarcely encountered lanyard swivel. The top of the barrel is marked with the one line Hartford address and the left side of the frame is marked "COLTS / PATENT". The complete matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard, cylinder and backstrap, and partial serial number "8510" is marked on the loading lever, wedge, and arbor pin. The cylinder is roll engraved with the Texas naval battle scene. Casehardened frame, silver plated steel trigger guard and backstrap, with blue on the remaining parts, and fitted with a smooth one piece walnut grip.

Good. The metal surfaces have a mottled gray patina with overall minor pitting. The trigger guard retains 75% original silver plating with scattered flaking. The backstrap shows 20% silver on the top and butt with the balance having a dark patina with some minor spotting. Half of the cylinder scene is visible. The grip is good with scattered patches of original varnish, lower edge wear and a few minor chips on the right toe and left side bottom. Markings are faint, but legible. The action is fine.