The Model 1862 was one of the last Colt revolvers released during Samuel Colt's life and is arguably one of the most advanced and attractive of all Colt percussion revolvers. It was an excellent compact sidearm for a law enforcement officer, military officer, or common soldier during the Civil War. This incredibly early Colt Model 1862 Police is consecutively serial numbered with the next lot, and both may have actually been pre-production prototypes from 1861, given the lack of the usual patent markings on the frames and cylinders as well as the non-standard numbering style. The matching serial number is stamped on the sides of the loading lever, arbor pin, and cylinder in addition to the usual locations on the wedge, barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap, and hand-written in the back strap mortise of the grip. The barrel has a brass cone front sight and is double stamped with "-ADDRESS SAML COLT HARTFORD CT.-" The frame does not have a capping groove. The barrel and cylinder, as well as some of the small parts, were finished blue, the grip straps were silver plated, and the loading lever, frame, and hammer were casehardened. The grip is piano varnished walnut.

Fine with 30% original case colors, 85% original silver plating showing dark aged patina in some areas and lighter aged patina in the more exposed portions, 25% original blue finish on the cylinder, mostly smooth gray-brown patina on the balance, minimal light oxidation/pitting, and mild overall wear. The grip is also fine and retains the majority of the original finish, a few scratches and dings, and minor edge wear. Mechanically fine. This is the earliest Colt Model 1862 Police we've ever brought to auction and would be a significant addition to any Colt collection.