This revolver was manufactured in 1861 as the Civil War was breaking out and has the classic German-American style engraving of Master Engraver Gustave Young, Colt's primary engraving contractor in the period. The back strap also once displayed a presentation inscription from either Young or another engraver, but this was removed in the period. The inscription was likely to a Union officer given the popularity of units or hometowns of presenting deluxe sidearms to military officers during the war. The small "S.C." marking added at the top of the back strap might be the second owner of the revolver's initials or perhaps an indication this revolver was captured and used by South Carolina troops who removed the original inscription. Regardless of its precise history, it is certainly a very desirable engraved '51 Navy. The barrel has a dovetailed blade front sight, the desirable "-ADDRESS SAML COLT HARTFORD, CT.-" address found on some revolvers manufactured in 1860 and early 1861, and a small "2" on the left side of the barrel lug at the bottom. The cylinder has the classic Naval Battle of Campeche roll scene. The engraving throughout consists of primarily acanthus scroll patterns accented by floral blooms along with an eagle's head at the terminus of the scroll at the loading lever screw on the left side of the barrel lug. This engraved head is certainly in keeping with Gustave Young's shop's extremely fine engraving from the period as is the engraved "COLT'S/PATENT" marking on the left side of the frame and the wolf's head motif on the hammer (no dots present on the spur). The trigger guard and back strap engraving is essentially identical to other inscribed, Gustave Young engraved 1851 Navy revolvers in the 100000+ serial number range shown in "The Colt Engraving Book Volume I" by R. L. Wilson. The floral bloom above the wedge is rather distinctive and not often seen. The Model 1849 Pocket from 1860 on page 110 of "The Colt Engraving Book" has rather similar engraving. The checkered grip is also very rare. All of the serial numbers on the various metal components match.

Very good with crisp engraving and markings, 60% original silver plating on the trigger guard, patches of original silver plating on the top and protected areas of the back strap, aged patina on the silver and exposed brass, 30% original blue finish on the barrel, traces of original blue on the cylinder which has a legible roll-scene as well as some dings and flattened safety pins, traces of original case colors, and smooth brown and gray patina on the balance along with some patches of minor oxidation/pitting and general mild overall wear such as some dings and scratches. The grip is very fine aside from a few tiny flakes and has crisp checkering with attractive dark backgrounds, nice grain and minor age cracks visible on the butt, and mild handling wear overall. Mechanically fine. This is definitely a very interesting and overall attractive '51 Navy that looks like it has a great story to tell.