This exceptional 1861 production revolver has the military style blue finish on the barrel and cylinder as well as most of the small parts, non-plated brass grip straps, oil finished grip, and casehardened loading lever, hammer, and frame. It has no visible U.S. government markings and may have been sold as a part of a contract with a state government or a private purchase. The Colt Model 1851 Navy was the second most popular of all Colt percussion revolvers and was widely used by both sides during the Civil War. Revolvers manufactured prior to and during the Civil War are particularly hard to find in high condition, especially those with military type finish rather than fancier commercial revolvers. It has a brass cone front sight, the "NEW-YORK" barrel address, standard roll-scene and patent markings, and matching partial or full serial numbers stamped on the loading lever, wedge, barrel, cylinder, arbor pin, frame, trigger guard, and back strap along with "6216" hand-written in ink in the back strap mortise.

Exceptionally fine with 80% original blue on the barrel, 40% original blue on the cylinder, 90% plus vivid original case colors, attractive aged patina on the grip straps, distinct markings and cylinder scene, mostly gray patina on the faded areas, solid safety pins on the cylinder, and generally only very light wear considering its age and period of use. The grip is also very fine and has a few minor dents (most noticeable on lower left forward butt) and smooth, dark oiled finish. Mechanically excellent. This is a beautiful and totally original Civil War era Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver that would be an exceptional addition to any Colt or Civil War collection.