Undoubtedly, the most popular revolver Colt produced in the medium size and power range. It is a 6-shot .36-caliber percussion revolver, with 7.5 octagonal barrel. Has an attached loading lever. Basic model has a case colored frame hammer and loading lever, with silver-plated brass grip frame and trigger guard. Grips are varnished walnut. Colt manufactured approximately 215,000 of these fine revolvers between 1850 and 1873. Basic Navy features a roll-engraved cylinder scene of a battle between the navies of Texas and Mexico. There are three distinct barrel stampings—serial number 1-74000, 'Address Saml. Colt New York City'; serial number 74001-101000 'Address Saml. Colt. Hartford, Ct.'; and serial number 101001-215000 'Address Saml. Colt New York U.S. America'. Left side of frame is stamped 'Colt's/Patent' on all variations. This model also available with a detached shoulder stock. Values for shoulder stocks today are nearly as high as for the revolver itself. Careful appraisal should be secured before purchase. The number of variations within 1851 Navy model designation makes it necessary to read specialized text available on the subject.' Square Back Trigger Guard, 1st Model, Serial #1-1000

Courtesy Rock Island Auction Company

Courtesy Milwaukee Public Museum, Milwaukee, Wisconsin