Manufactured from 1838 to 1840. The revolver has the distinctive flared walnut grip, an Ehlers loading lever and the rounded back 5-shot cylinder featuring the stagecoach scene. The top barrel flat is marked "- Patent Arms No.. Co. Paterson, N.J. Colt's Pt." reading from the breech to the muzzle with the "snake and star" marking on each end. The matching serial number "818" is stamped on the butt, barrel lug below the cylinder pin hole, cylinder (rear) and wedge. The No. 5 was the most popular Colt Paterson revolver. The Ordnance Department purchased 150 No. 5 revolvers in 1840 for issue to the U.S. Navy; 100 of these revolvers were shipped to the Pacific Squadron. The Republic of Texas purchased 180 No. 5 revolvers with nine inch barrels. Some of these revolvers were issued to the Texas Rangers commanded by Jack Hays in his fight with the Comanche Indians that was subsequently depicted on the cylinders of the Colt Walker and Dragoon revolvers. The Texas Model Paterson is the most desirable of all the rare and highly collectable Colt Paterson revolvers. This revolver is pictured on page 147 of "The Paterson Colt Book" by R.L. Wilson.

Very good. The barrel retains 25% original blue finish and the frame retains traces of original case colors, otherwise a smooth gray patina mixed with some minor pitting. Most of the cylinder scene remains. The professionally restored grip is good with a few minor dings and high edge wear. Mechanically excellent.