November 5th & 6th 2016 Premier Firearms Sale
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/5/2016
According to the Factory letter, this was shipped as a standard 1861 Navy with wood stocks and shipped to Colt's New York office on March 7th, 1861 in a shipment of only five guns. It was obviously engraved by one of the New York Colt contract engravers during the period of Gustave Young (1852 to 1869). The style of engraving, with its fine scroll work and punch-dot background, is the type of work done in the shop of Gustave Young; very similar pattern of engraving can be seen on page 65 in the book of Colt Engraving by Wilson. The frame exhibits nearly full coverage engraving, as does the backstrap and hammer; trigger guard and butt are also engraved and the barrel exhibits engraving on over half its surface. The cylinder exhibits a strong Naval battle scene but is not engraved. Exhibits all matching numbers, including wedge and cylinder. All metal surfaces are beautifully silver plated, have never been cleaned, and have taken on the rainbow coin finish. The period original one piece ivory grips sport full checkering on both panels. Cylinder shows no burn. Strong clean bore and perfect action. Gun remains in all original condition as it was when period engraved; the workmanship is flawless. It is quite evident this highly decorated firearm was intended as a very special gift or possession for someone of means or importance. Given the date of manufacture, this revolver was quite likely intended for someone involved in the Civil War. Spectacular period master engraved Colt 1861 Navy.
Caliber/Bore
.36 percussion