This incredible revolver was originally manufactured in 1861 and is one of just a few hundred '61 Navies purchased for the U.S. Navy during the Civil War and was then subsequently converted for the navy in the mid-1870s. These were then used through the late 19th century before being replaced by the Colt Model 1889 Navy and New Navy revolvers. By this period, handguns were not seen as necessary for naval forces since boarding operations during wartime had become exceedingly rare and officials felt that edged weapons were just as suitable for the rare instances that did occur. The navy was also very small going into the Civil War, and Samuel Colt had to work hard to even get small orders for the U.S. Navy in the 1850s. After the war, the navy was reduced by nearly ten times its wartime size down to just 6,000 men, so converting the revolvers they had on hand was more realistic than spending funds to purchase new revolvers that weren't likely to see use anyways. This stunning example has a German silver blade front sight, the New York barrel address, "R.W.M." and an anchor on the bottom of the barrel at the breech, "PAT. JULY. 25, 1871./PAT. JULY. 2, 1872." on the left side of the frame along with traces of the original "COLT/PATENT" marking, "36 CAL" on the left side of the trigger guard, "59018/2903" on the cylinder, "2903" on the loading gate, barrel, frame, grip straps, and grip.

Exceptionally fine with 85% plus of the vibrant Colt factory case colors remaining on the frame and hammer, 75% plus factory blue finish on the barrel, ejector housing, and cylinder; attractive aged patina on the brass grip straps, and fairly minor age and storage related wear overall. Aside from divot on the right side at the edge, the grip is fine and has minor marks and scratches and smooth oiled finish. Mechanically excellent. This revolver is extraordinarily fine for a U.S. Navy conversion revolver and will enhance any U.S. military collection greatly!