Civil War Era Colt 1851 Navy .36 Cal Black Powder Revolver MFD 1863 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,100.00
LSB#: WY250309PI010
Make: Colt
Model: 1851 Navy
Serial Number: 149638
Year of Manufacture: 1863 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup/)
Caliber: .36 Caliber
Action Type: Single Action, Percussion Cap, Black Powder Revolver
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “ADDRESS COL SAM L COLT NEW YORK US AMERICA” The left side of the frame is marked “COLT’S PATENT” The led side of the trigger guard is marked “36 CAL” The bottom of the barrel, frame, trigger guard and grip is marked “149638”
Barrel Length: 7.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass post. The rear sight is a notch in the hammer.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are 2 smooth wood panels. There are light scratches and compression marks present. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Hardened
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is dark, the rifling is defined. There is some erosion and stubborn fouling present. In this writers opinion the bore rates 4/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 0% of its metal finish. The finish has faded to a nice patina. There are light scratches, compression marks and scuffs present, which is typical of service weapons. There is some rust freckling present. The markings are clear. The screw heads range from tool marked with serviceable slots to completely stripped, The barrel pin retention screw has broken in half and the retention pin has sheared off. This revolver rates in Fair condition for an antique.
Mechanics: The action does not function correctly. The cylinder does not rotate on all cylinders when the hammer is pulled back. The hammer still holds at half and full cock with a strong spring. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Colt 1851 Navy revolver is one of the most historically significant firearms of the 19th century. Introduced in 1850 and produced until 1873, it became one of the most widely used sidearms of its time. Designed by Samuel Colt, this .36 caliber percussion revolver was favored by military officers, lawmen, and civilians alike due to its balance, reliability, and stopping power. By the time this particular revolver was manufactured in 1863, the United States was deep in the throes of the Civil War, and the 1851 Navy was a popular choice for both Union and Confederate soldiers. Many Confederate officers carried captured or imported copies of the design, and it remained in use long after the war ended.
This example retains its classic features, including the iconic octagonal barrel and six-shot cylinder. Given its 1863 manufacture date, it’s likely that this revolver saw service during the Civil War, potentially in the hands of a soldier or an officer who relied on it in battle. Firearms like these often found their way into the hands of pioneers and frontiersmen after the war, further extending their historical footprint into the post-war expansion of the American West.
For collectors, this is a must-have piece, embodying the craftsmanship and history of the Colt percussion era. It’s a true antique, over 160 years old, and yet it still speaks to the innovation of its time. Whether you are a Civil War historian, a Colt enthusiast, or an antique firearm collector, this is an outstanding addition to any collection. The Colt 1851 Navy is a revolver that tells a story, and this one is waiting to be a part of yours. Please see our high-quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.
