Manufactured in 1852, this is an example of a factory engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver. The rear upper and side barrel flats, barrel lug, frame, rear sides of the loading lever, back strap, head of the wedge and trigger guard bow are engraved with a floral scroll and punch dot pattern. The sides of the hammer have a fish head motif and a scale pattern on the top. There is a shell design on the top of the back strap. The top barrel flat is marked "-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY", the left side of the frame is engraved "COLTS/PATENT" at a slant in a banner. The cylinder is roll engraved with the Texas/Mexican naval battle scene and marked "COLTS PATENT No 14065". The complete matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard, loading lever and back strap, the partial serial number "065" is marked on the wedge. There is a dot stamped below the serial number on the frame and trigger guard and there appears to be a dot above the serial number on the barrel lug. Standard brass cone front and hammer notch rear sights, the barrel and cylinder were blue, silver plated brass trigger guard and back strap, and casehardened remaining parts. The revolver is fitted with a varnished one-piece walnut grip. Complete in a walnut case with a brass shield inset in the lid and green velvet lining. The case has six compartments and contains a brass powder flask and a two cavity iron bullet mold with "COLTS/PATENT" marked on the sprue cutter and "36B" on one arm, nipple wrench/screwdriver, cleaning rod, key and a partially full W&C Eley cap tin.

Good. The barrel and cylinder have been cleaned and all of the metal surfaces have an artificial gray patina with some pin prick type pitting on the barrel, cylinder and frame. The trigger guard has been period replated and retains 98% silver plating showing some minor edge wear. The back strap retains 75% original silver plating with an aged patina on the exposed brass. The cylinder pin is a replacement. The grip is also very good with some lower edge wear, and scattered minor dents and dings. The engraving shows some signs of wear, otherwise for the most part the engraving and markings are clear. The loading lever is a bit difficult to latch and unlatch. The action is excellent. The case is good with numerous minor scratches and dings on the exterior and overall moderately worn lining. The flask is good with most of the original finish remaining, and showing an aged patina on the brass and a few minor/moderate dents. The bullet mold, cap tin, cleaning rod and nipple wrench/screwdriver are very good.