Originally manufactured in 1856 and subsequently returned to the Colt factory and converted in the early 1870s to .38 centerfire for U.S. Navy issue. 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. The barrel is marked with the one line New York address and has had the loading lever removed, with the holes partially plugged, and an ejector rod with housing added to the right. The Texas Navy battle scene roll engraved cylinder, numbered "59042" to a different gun with partial matching serial number "1332" added below, has been cut as part of the conversion, with a breech plate, loading gate and center fire hammer firing pin added. "PAT.JULY. 25, 1871./PAT.JULY. 2, 1872." marked on the left of the frame over the original "COLTS/PATENT/U.S." markings. Matching full and partial serial number marked on the barrel lug, frame, iron trigger guard, butt, cylinder, loading gate and handwritten in black ink inside the grip mortise. The wedge is unmarked. Inspection initials "R.W.M.(navy anchor)." of U.S. Navy Commander Richard W. Meade marked underneath the barrel, and "USN" marked on the butt (faint). Fitted with a smooth walnut grip. Includes an unmarked period leather slim jim style holster.

Fine, retains 50% factory refurbished blue finish mostly concentrated on the barrel with some scattered scratches, some patches of light pitting towards the muzzle, and smooth gray and brown patina on the balance of the remaining blued surfaces. Mostly defined cylinder scene. 60% plus vivid factory refurbished case colors remain on the frame. Grip is very good as re-oiled with scattered dents, scratches and general light wear. Mechanically excellent. Included holster is good with scattered age related cracking.