This is a very rare and exceptionally nice example of an early Colt Navy Revolver with Squareback trigger guard.  7 1/2" octagon barrel, .36 Caliber, with 6 shot cylinder.  The bottomstrap appears to be factory inscribed with the original owner's initials. 1st year production...A true California Gold-Rush era Colt that was made in 1850. Serial number is in the 1100 range with all matching numbers including the wedge.  

Only the first 4200 Model 1851's were squarebacks. The First Model Squareback with the upside down wedges are generally found into the 1250 serial range with a few strays as high as 1300 and 1400 ranges. The 2nd Model is identical with only the wedge screw re-located above the wedge like all other Colt Percussion revolvers. 2nd Models typically start around the 1250 serial range and cease at 4200. Even though its in the 1100 serial range, this is a very early second model with the wedge screw located above the wedge.  Could this be the very first 2nd Model Squareback Colt built???  

Overall condition is NRA Antique Very Good Plus.  The gun overall is mostly a smooth light grey patina with strong traces of original finish in protected areas.  The barrel still has 10-15% original blue located mostly around the wedge, front sight, and along the bottom 3 flats of the octagon barrel just above the loading lever.  The flat pivot point of the loading lever still shows light faded original case colors.  Nice markings include the early style New York City Barrel address and "Colt's Patent" on left side of frame.  Frame is mostly a light grey patina with traces of case colors mostly on the right side and a few pinprick pits on the left side of the frame.  Cylinder retains a strong 80% of its roll engraved Naval scene.  The rear of cylinder still has its cylinder pins intact...3 or 4 look are looking a little flat after 156 years with 2 still perfect. Triggerguard and backstrap have 20% original silver plating with balance of brass aged to a nice mellow patina. Grips are Fine+ overall still showing 80%+  original varnish showing only light handling marks.  Good+ bore with strong rifling. Action works perfectly.  A nice untouched example of the early Model 51' Squareback Navy Revolver!

Item# 9115

SOLD