This classic Colt '51 Navy was manufactured in 1856 and features the iconic 1850s factory scroll engraving patterns associated with Master Engraver Gustave Young, then Colt's primary engraving contractor. The engraving includes the "COLTS/PATENT" marking on the left side of the frame rather than the usual stamped marking. The barrel has the one-line New York City address. There are "A" inspection type stamps repeated on various components, and the factory dash mark used to designate revolvers for special finishing is by the main serial numbers on the bottom. The visible serial numbers are all matching. The grip is nicely figured walnut with a varnish finish. The back strap is inscribed "Lieut Geo. D. Ruggles./U.S. Army." George David Ruggles (1833-1904) of New York served in the U.S. Army for over four decades. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point the year prior to the production of this revolver and was assigned to the 2nd U.S. Infantry on the frontier as a 2nd lieutenant and was promoted to 1st lieutenant and regimental adjutant. During the Civil War, he rose through the ranks and served as General Pope's chief of staff and adjutant general and also served on the staffs of McClellan and Meade before becoming adjutant general of the Army of the Potomac. He received a brevet promotion to brigadier general in the U.S. Army late in the war "for gallant and meritorious service during the operations resulting in the fall of Richmond, Virginia, and the surrender of the insurgent army under General Robert E. Lee." He continued his military career within the Adjutant General's Department until his retirement in 1897 as a brigadier general, including serving as adjutant general himself from 1893-1897. In retirement, he served as governor of the Soldiers' Home in the nation's capital, and died while living in Washington, D.C. in 1904. His son Colden H. Ruggles also attended West Point and graduated in 1886 and became a brigadier general in the U.S. Army and served in the artillery and Ordnance Department, including with the American Expeditionary Force during World War I.

Very good plus. 70% of the original silver plating remains on the grip straps with fading mostly along the backstrap where the inscription remains legible. The balance of the revolver displays crisp engraving and a smooth brown patina. There are some scattered dings and scratches and a few patches of minor oxidation. The wedge screw is a replacement. The grip is fine and has attractive figure, moderate handling and storage wear, and a few dings. Mechanically fine. This is lovely factory engraved Colt '51 Navy made all the more desirable by its inscription to a career military officer who served in the U.S. Army for most of the second half of the 19th century, including in notable roles during the Civil War.