This Model 1851 was manufactured in 1850 (the first year of production) and is one of possibly as few as 800 Model 1851 Navy revolvers manufactured with the barrel wedge positioned over the screw that distinguish the First Models. The Colt Model 1851 Navy, first known as the "Ranger Model" and also known as the "Revolving Belt Pistol of Naval Caliber," was designed between 1847 and 1850, manufactured from 1850 until 1873, and was the second most popular Colt percussion revolver after only the Model 1849 Pocket. Though its name implies maritime use, most Navy revolvers saw use on dry land, including in the Old West. The Model 1851 was popular thanks to its intermediate caliber and relatively compact size. They definitely provided more firepower than other popular civilian firearms of the day such as the single shot Philadelphia derringers, and many 1851 Navies continued to be used well-after cartridge models became available. This example has the early style barrel with a non-beveled loading cut out, screw under the wedge, brass post front sight, and the correct early production "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-" marking stamped on top. The left side of the frame has the "COLT'S/PATENT" marking. The renumbered replacement cylinder has the standard Naval Battle of Campeche scene. The matching serial number is stamped on the loading lever, barrel, arbor pin, cylinder (remarked), frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and the wedge is not marked.

Good with mottled gray and brown patina as well as some minor pitting on the steel, 70% original silver plating and aged patinas on the grip frame, general minor scratches and marks, distinct markings, hammering marks on the butt, moderate edge wear and small chips at the toe of the grip, and moderate handling wear. The replacement cylinder is renumbered to match. Mechanically fine. This is an important and difficult to find Colt Model 1851 Navy variation.