Only 2,200 Model 1861 Navy revolvers are believed to have been factory converted in the mid 1870s. The U.S. Navy had only purchased several hundred of '61 Navies during the Civil War. Like the U.S.N. contract Model 1851 Navy revolvers, these revolvers saw use in the Civil War and remained in use into the late 19th century. This revolver was originally manufactured in 1862 and has a brass blade front sight, the New York address and "R.W.M." followed by an anchor on the barrel, "COLTS/PATENT" and the 1871 and 1872 patents on the left side of the frame, "36 CAL" and "9" on the left side of the trigger guard, "1236" on the loading gate, collector's inventory number on the trigger guard, replacement cylinder ("8252") and matching serial numbers on the barrel, frame, trigger guard and back strap.

Fine. The barrel and cylinder retain 40% original blue finish and 20% original case colors remain on the hammer and frame, otherwise a smooth brown-gray patina. Much of the cylinder scene remains. The brass has an attractive patina. The grip is very good with high edge wear, couple tiny chips near the bottoms, and numerous minor dings mostly on the butt. Mechanically excellent. This revolver will make for a worthy addition to any U.S. martial collection.