This is an example of one of the only 800 No. 3 Paterson Revolvers that Colt manufactured from 1838 to 1840. This is an early Paterson Belt Model Revolver with medium frame, straight grip and straight back five-shot cylinder. The No. 3 Belt Model revolver is the only variation of the Colt Paterson revolver that was manufactured with both straight and flared grips. The revolver is blue and fitted with two piece fancy walnut grips. The top barrel flat has the early script legend of "-Patent Arms M'g Co Paterson N-J Colt's Pt.-" reading towards the muzzle. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Centaur scene. The serial number "254" is stamped on the rear face of the barrel lug, the barrel wedge, the right side of the trigger and the rear face of the cylinder. The cylinder turning ring is stamped with the partial serial number "25".

Fine. The revolver retains 40% of the original blue finish in protected areas. The balance of the revolver has a smooth blue-gray age patina. The barrel markings are crisp. The cylinder has 90% or more of the Centaur scene. There is moderate flash pitting on the percussion nipples, the rear of the cylinder face and the sides of the hammer. The grips are very good with traces of the original varnish and minimal handling or storage marks. This revolver is a fine original example of a rare Colt Paterson Belt Model Revolver