This beautiful classic Colt Model 1861 Navy percussion revolver was manufactured in 1863 and features stunning factory engraving. Very similar patterns can be seen on Georg Sterzing attributed factory engraved revolvers in "Colt Factory Engravers of the 19th Century" by Houze. Note for example the use of floral blooms amid the scrolls. The engraving is classic Germanic scrollwork with punched backgrounds accented by lined borders, floral and shell accents, and a few wavy line designs. The standard factory markings are also present, including "COLTS/PATENT" double stamped on the left side and matching visible serial numbers with the "E" designation denoting factory engraving. The revolver also features scarce factory silver and gold plating and a one-piece grip with a raised relief carved rendition of the eagle and rattlesnake motif from the Mexican coat of arms on the left side. The revolver comes in a fitted case with an Eley Bros. cap tin, silver plated martial themed flask, a cartridge pack, an L-shaped combination tool, a deluxe blued Colt patent mold, and a few projectiles. A letter to Dave Kinsey from George Madis is also included in which he indicates the "Old A.D. 'Buckhorn' Hodge, of Dallas, Tx. got the gun from Mrs. Hyde (and me) at her house - this was, I guess, in 1971 or 1972. He only had it a short time, maybe less than a week...This was a 'Gem' in Elton Hyde's collection..." A copy of Hyde's receipt from Weston's Mexican Art Shop on May 4, 1953, is also included. Provenance: Weston's Mexican Art Shop; The Elton Hyde Collection; The A.D. Hodge Collection; The Dave Kinsey Collection; The Norm Vegely Collection

Very fine with 70% original silver plating remaining, thin original gold remaining on the cylinder along with 75% plus of the original silver plated backing, strong original gold on the hammer, areas of age darkened patina on the silver, attractive aged patina on the exposed brass on the grip frame, and mostly smooth brown patina on the balance of the cylinder. The engraving remains crisp, and most of the markings are distinct. The grip is also very fine and has crisp raised relief carving, attractive natural aged tones, minimal age cracks, and minor handling and storage marks. Mechanically fine. The case and accessories are also very fine. The keyhole escutcheon is absent. Overall, this is a very attractive Civil War era Colt Model 1861 Navy revolver with interesting Mexican theme raised relief carved grip certain to add artistry and value to any collection of antique Colts.