This Model 1851 was manufactured in 1850 (the first year of production). The Colt "Revolving Belt Pistol of Naval Caliber" was designed between 1847 and 1850 and manufactured from 1850 until 1873. It was initially called the Ranger Model. Though its name implies maritime use, most Navy revolvers saw use on dry land. The Model 1851 was well liked for its intermediate caliber (between the .44 caliber Dragoons and .31 caliber Model 1849 Pocket) and relatively compact size. It was used by a wide array of well known American heroes and villains including Wild Bill Hickok, "Doc" Holliday, Robert E. Lee, Nathan Bedford Forrest, and a great many others. Many Navies continued to be used in the American West well after cartridge models became available. This example has the early style barrel with an non-beveled loading cut out, screw under the wedge, brass squared post front sight, and "ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-" stamped on top. The left side of the frame has the "COLT'S/PATENT" marking. The cylinder has the naval engagement scene. The matching serial number is marked on the loading lever, barrel lug, frame, trigger guard (small "K" marked above), cylinder, and back strap. It has a one-piece walnut grip and the standard finishes.

Very good plus. The blue finish on the barrel has mostly faded to a brown patina. The grip frame retains 25% of the original silver plating and has an aged patina. The remaining components have a dark gray patina, and there are some spots of minor oxidation and pitting and scattered minor dings. The grip is also very good with a few minor dings and scratches consistent with use. The markings are legible, and the action is excellent. One will look a long time to find another example of this highly sought after variation of Colt Percussion Revolvers!