Manufactured in 1861, the first year of production. The top of the barrel is marked "ADDRESS COL SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S.AMERICA", the left side of the frame is marked "COLTS/PATENT", and one cylinder flute is marked "PAT. SEPT. 10th 1850". The left trigger guard shoulder is marked "36 CAL". The matching serial number is marked on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder pin, rear face of the cylinder and wedge. Brass cone front and hammer notch rear sights; the barrel and cylinder were blue, the frame, loading lever, and hammer casehardened and the trigger guard and back strap silver plated brass. Fitted with a smooth one piece varnished walnut grip.

Fine. The barrel, cylinder and loading lever have a smooth mottled gray patina with some signs of light cleaning. There is strong original dark blue finish in three of the cylinder flutes and some minor pitting. The frame shows 50% original bright case colors with some minor pitting on the right recoil shield. The trigger guard and back strap retain 75% original silver plating which is beginning to darken a bit with age. There is an aged patina on the exposed brass. The grip is very fine with 90% original varnish, a small chip on each toe, minimal lower edge wear and a few tiny dings. The markings are clear. The action is fine.