This is an extremely high condition example of an extremely rare Thuer conversion of a Colt Model 1851 Navy circa 1869-1872. This type of metallic cartridge conversion was a designed by F. Alexander Thuer, occurred at the Colt factory with production in six different models totaling around 5,000 in all, and represented Colt’s first production centerfire revolvers. Original examples in high condition are scarce and highly sought after. The conversion ring rotates which allows the user to safely carry the revolver fully loaded with the hammer down and has the 1868 patent marking on the left as well as the typical script “E”. These conversions fired specially designed Thuer cartridges that loaded from the front. The percussion cylinder was altered with the removal of the rear section and the addition of a conversion ring featuring a rebounding firing pin. The top of the barrel carries the one-line New York address. London proofmarks are on the left side of the barrel and on the cylinder between each chamber at the rear. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the standard naval battle scene and "COLTS PATENT" marking followed by the matching partial serial number “636.” The left side of the frame is marked “COLTS/PATENT.” The left side of the trigger guard is marked “36 CAL.” The matching full or partial serial number appears on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, and arbor pin. The mismatched wedge has the number “5587,” and the loading lever is unnumbered. The revolver is fitted with a varnished walnut grip. Includes an English oak partitioned case featuring a Colt London paper label on the interior of the lid and a blank brass inscription disc on the exterior of the lid. The interior of the case is lined in green felt. The case contains the following accessories: percussion cylinder (no. 77343) featuring the naval scene, two cap tins, Navy size lubricating wad tin, oiler, “COLT’S/PATENT” marked conical and ball bullet mold, case key, “L” shaped combination tool, Thuer cartridge loading fixture parts, and full count of 50 Navy metallic cartridges in correct period tin box with orange label. Provenance: The Norm Vegely Collection