Lot 1248: U.S. Navy Colt Richards-Mason Conversion Model 1851 Revolver

The cartridge conversion Navy revolvers continued to be used by the U.S. Navy up until their replacement in the 1890s by the Colt Model 1889 double action revolver. This example correctly falls into the serial number range of U.S. Colt Richards-Mason Model 1851 Revolvers as established by McDowell in "A Study of Colt Conversions and Other Percussion Revolvers," page 232. The barrel is stamped with the New York address on the top flat and Commander Richard W. Meade conversion inspector marked "R.W.M." followed by an anchor on the bottom flat. "U S N" is stamped on the butt. "COLTS/PATENT/US" and "PAT. JULY. 25, 1871./PAT. JULY. 2, 1872." markings are stamped on the left side of the frame. The cylinder has the standard Texas Navy battle scene and has the number "2588." The loading gate has the number "1332." Matching full serial numbers are on the barrel, frame, trigger guard and back strap.

Good. The revolver has a mottled brown-gray patina and retains traces of the cylinder scene. Ejector head is a replacement. The grips are also good with a couple chips at the toe, high edge wear and minor handling marks. Mechanically fine.