Manufactured originally in 1862, this is an exceptional example of one of approximately 2,200 Model 1861 Navy revolvers believed to have been factory converted in the mid 1870s. The U.S. Navy had only purchased a few hundred '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. It has a German silver blade front sight, the New York barrel address, "R.W.M." and an anchor on the bottom of the barrel at the breech, "PAT. JULY. 25, 1871./PAT. JULY. 2, 1872." on the left side of the frame, "36 CAL" on the left side of the trigger guard, "3061/6602" on the cylinder along with inspector marks "J.R.G/P", "602" on the loading gate, and "6602" on the barrel, frame, grip straps, and grip.

Very fine, retains 50% factory refurbished blue finish, and 75% vivid case colors. The brass which shows an attractive antique patina with the balance of the metal areas showing a mixture of brown and grey patinas. The lightly sanded and reoiled grip is also very good with light dings and scratches scattered throughout, a series of minor chips in the right bottom edge, and a series of minor dings in the butt. Mechanically excellent.