This revolver was manufactured in 1856 and was engraved in the classic style of Gustave Young, very likely by the master himself. His shop was responsible for most "factory engraved" Colts in 1854 to 1869 as Colt's main engraving contractor. It has three dots on the hammer indicating three ten-hour days were spent engraving the revolver and features Young's distinctive animal head amongst the traditional scroll engraving and a wolf head hammer. The engraved "COLTS/PATENT" marking on the left side of the frame is another common feature on Colts from Young's shop. The engraving is very similar to the revolver on page 59 of "The Book of Colt Engraving" by Wilson. Wilson also notes the " ' " by the main serial numbers was used on revolvers that were both engraved and fitted with antique ivory grips by/for the factory. The revolver also has a brass cone front sight, "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-" on the top of the barrel, all matching serial numbers (grip not dismounted), standard cylinder scene, and the noted special order grip.

Very good with traces of original silver plating in the protected areas, aged patina on the exposed brass, smooth light gray patina on most of the remaining surfaces, crisp engraving, mostly distinct markings, partially faded cylinder scene on the once cleaned, refinished cylinder, some mild pitting concentrated on the cylinder, and general mild wear. The grip is very fine and has attractive natural tones and grain, some darker spots, a few very slight age cracks in the butt, and minor handling wear. Mechanically fine. A solid representative example of a Gustave Young factory engraved Model 1851 Navy that should be part of any collection of Colt percussion revolvers.