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Documented Colt Model 1861 Navy-Navy Cartridge Conversion Revolver

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:2,000.00 USD Estimated At:5,000.00 - 6,500.00 USD
Documented Colt Model 1861 Navy-Navy Cartridge Conversion Revolver
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Estimate: $5000 - 6500
This is an example of a Colt Model 1851 revolver that was manufactured in 1851 and later converted to fire the .38 center fire cartridge. The barrel is marked with the one line New York address and has had the loading lever removed, holes plugged and an ejector rod (plain head) with housing added to the right side. The Texas Navy battle scene roll engraved cylinder numbered "6699" and has been milled down as part of the conversion, with a breech plate, loading gate (34) and center fire hammer firing pin added. The left side of the frame is marked with the two line patent dates over "COLTS/PATENT". The barrel and trigger guard are serial numbered "4274", and the frame and back strap are numbered "6957". The bottom of the barrel is marked "R.W.M.anchor.". There are no visible inspector initials. Fitted with a smooth walnut grip. The revolver was once part of the R. Bruce McDowell Collection and is pictured in McDowell's book A STUDY OF COLT CONVERSIONS AND OTHER PERCUSSION REVOLVERS (pages 259 and 265).
BBL: 7 1/2 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 38 CF
Finish: blue/casehardened/silver
Grips: walnut
Serial Number: 6957
Condition: Very fine. The barrel retains 70% correct original military blue finish with the balance a smooth brown patina. There is a large dovetail slot filled on the underside of the barrel at the muzzle. The cylinder shows strong scattered thin original blue finish with a smooth gray patina on the balance. The scene is visible, but faint. The frame shows 50% original case colors with a smooth dark patina on the balance. The brass has an aged patina. The grip is fine with some wear on the lower edges, a few minor dings and a pleasant hand rubbed patina. Unless noted above, the markings are clear. The action is fine.