Colt Model 1851 Navy .36 Caliber 7½” Percussion Revolver 1861 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,476.00
LSB#: LSB250728AG010
Make: Colt
Model: Model 1851 Navy
Serial Number: 112861
Year of Manufacture: 1861
Caliber: .36 Caliber Percussion (Cap & Ball)
Action Type: Single Action Cap & Ball Revolver, 6-Shot Cylinder
Barrel Length: 7½” (Octagonal)
Markings: The top flat of the barrel is marked “ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA.” The left side of the frame is marked “COLTS / PATENT.” The serial number “112861” is found on the arbor, frame, trigger guard, and backstrap, all matching. The cylinder scene is no longer visible due to surface blasting, but the serial number remains clearly present in its proper location.
Type of Finish: Media-Blasted Matte Gray
Finish Originality: Refinished by media blasting; original finish fully removed.
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with visible rifling. There is light corrosion and erosion throughout but no fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver has been completely media blasted to a uniform matte gray finish, removing all original blue and case colors as well as the naval engagement cylinder scene. The pre-blast surface condition is unknown, so while this treatment eliminated the original finish, it may represent a visual improvement over the firearm’s prior state. The steel surfaces are smooth and even, showing fine sanding marks around the wedge area and right frame flat. The brass trigger guard and backstrap display light handling marks and a subdued yellow tone. The grips are well-fitted, showing typical wear and small handling marks consistent with age. All serial numbers remain legible and matching. Overall, this revolver retains zero original finish and presents in restored matte gray condition.
Mechanics: The hammer cocks and the trigger functions correctly, but the cylinder does not reliably index or lock up, indicating a weak or non-functional cylinder stop engagement. The revolver will require gunsmith attention to restore proper timing and lockup. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass bead fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a notch cut into the hammer nose.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The one-piece walnut grip fits tightly to the brass grip frame. It shows moderate handling marks, small dings, and edge wear but no major cracks or losses.
Accessories: Six-shot cylinder. No accessories are included.
Our Assessment: This is an authentic Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver manufactured in 1861, during the same period when Colt’s Hartford plant was supplying percussion revolvers to both military and civilian buyers at the dawn of the Civil War. With its .36 caliber chambering, 7½” octagonal barrel, and matching serial numbers, this revolver represents one of the most iconic Colt designs of the 19th century. The naval engagement scene—normally engraved with “Engaged 16 May 1843”—has been lost to a full media blast refinish, resulting in a smooth gray surface that conceals its earlier wear. The bore retains visible rifling and a fair degree of definition, and while the mechanics will need adjustment, the revolver remains structurally sound. This piece stands as a genuine 1861-production Colt Navy, preserved in stripped form and ready for careful restoration or historical display. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to take a look at the condition of the revolver in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
