Colt 1851 Navy - Manufactured in 1863 with original box and accessories
28 July 2025
Description

This is an exceptional example of an original Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver, serial number 168753, manufactured in 1863 during the height of the American Civil War. This six-shot, single-action percussion revolver is chambered in .36 caliber and features a 7.5-inch octagonal barrel with the classic engraved naval battle scene on the cylinder—still partially visible and intact. The revolver retains its original patina, with matching serial numbers on the frame, barrel, trigger guard, and backstrap, confirming its authenticity and integrity. The action cycles smoothly, and the walnut grips remain tight and in very good condition for its age, showing appropriate wear consistent with a well-preserved 160-year-old firearm. This piece comes in its original fitted mahogany case, complete with: Colt-marked dual cavity bullet mold Copper powder flask with high-relief naval motif Cap tin Nipple wrench Original .36 caliber paper cartridge box This revolver is a superb historical artifact from one of the most iconic firearms of the 19th century, widely used by Union naval and army officers during the Civil War. Its presence in a fully accessorized presentation case significantly enhances its desirability among collectors. --- Model: Colt 1851 Navy Caliber: .36 percussion Serial Number: 168753 Year of Manufacture: 1863 Condition: Very Good+ (Original finish and complete set) Provenance: Civil War–era production

Acquired from
Auction House
For sale
Yes
Answered within 1 day
By David U.
Jul 29, 21:52 UTC
Fair Market Value
$12,000 - $18,000 USD
Insurance Value $0 USD
What does this mean?

Hello, this item is an original Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver manufactured in 1863, complete with its original fitted presentation case and accessories. Chambered in .36 caliber with a six-shot, single-action percussion mechanism, it features a 7.5-inch octagonal barrel and retains the iconic engraved naval battle scene on the cylinder, partially visible and intact. The revolver displays matching serial numbers on the frame, barrel, trigger guard, and backstrap, confirming its authenticity, with a well-preserved patina and walnut grips in very good condition. The action cycles smoothly, showing wear consistent with a carefully preserved Civil War–era firearm.

This example is further enhanced by its complete original set, including a Colt-marked dual cavity bullet mold, copper powder flask with high-relief naval motif, cap tin, nipple wrench, and original .36 caliber paper cartridge box, all housed in a mahogany case with compartmentalized green felt lining. Manufactured at the height of the American Civil War, this revolver represents one of the most iconic sidearms of Union naval and army officers and is highly desirable to collectors due to its originality and complete presentation. The market value for a Colt 1851 Navy in this state of preservation with original case and accessories typically ranges between $12,000 and $18,000 USD at auction.

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