Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver manufactured in 1853. This is one of the 1000 Model 1851 Navy revolvers (serial no. 31000-32000) purchased by the Austrian Navy in 1859. The Kreigsmarine marking and serial number "KM/745" is boldly stamped on the back strap immediately behind the hammer notch. The revolver has the Third Model features that include a small oval brass trigger guard, loading lever screws entering from the left side of the barrel lug, V-type non-beveled loading cut-out and thick barrel lug. The top barrel flat is marked "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-". "COLTS/PATENT" is stamped in two lines on the left side of the frame. A small "G" inspection mark is stamped on the left shoulder of the trigger guard and a small "H" is stamped on the left trigger guard bow. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Texas Navy battle scene, "COLTS PATENT No./Engraved by W.L. ORMSBY NEW YORK." and "ENGAGED 16 MAY 1843" along the edge of the cylinder. The full serial number, "31962", is stamped on the loading lever, bottom of the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard, back strap and on the side of the cylinder. All of the visible serial numbers match.

Very good plus. The revolver retains 25% of the original finish. Traces of the original blue finish are present on the sides and bottom of the barrel and lug. The cylinder retains most of the roll-engraved naval battle scene. The loading lever, frame and hammer have traces of the original color casehardened finish. The brass trigger guard and back strap have 40% of the original silver plated finish remaining. The walnut grip has numerous minor handling marks but is in very good overall condition with about half of the original varnish finish. The Colt and "KM" markings are sharp. The action is crisp and functions perfectly. This is a solid example of a scarce Austrian Navy Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver.