Untouched Colt Model 1861 Navy Percussion Revolver, Excellent .36 Caliber Bore

Manufactured: 1868 – Caliber: .36 – Excellent Bore and Original Condition

Rare 1868 Colt Model 1861 Navy, preserved in remarkable original condition and featuring an excellent .36 caliber bore. An authentic American frontier-era revolver, seldom encountered on the French market.

History

Introduced by Colt’s Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Company in 1861, the Colt Model 1861 Navy was developed as an evolution of the famous Colt 1851 Navy. It retained the qualities that made its predecessor successful while adopting a more modern profile inspired by the Colt 1860 Army. Chambered in .36 caliber percussion, it was manufactured from 1861 to 1873 in just over 38,000 examples and was appreciated for its balance, accuracy, and handling characteristics.

Easily recognizable by its round barrel, elegantly shaped frame, and cylinder engraved with a naval scene inspired by the Battle of Campeche, the Colt 1861 Navy occupies an important place among the percussion revolvers produced by Colt during the nineteenth century.

Our Example

This Colt Model 1861 Navy, manufactured in 1868, is rarely encountered on the French collectors' market, particularly in such a well-preserved condition. The example offered here remains untouched and retains attractive metal surfaces free from visible oxidation, displaying a pleasing and uniform gunmetal patina with traces of original blue finish remaining in the most protected areas. The markings are correct, sharp, and fully legible, while serial number 32XXX is fully matching throughout the major components, including the frame, cylinder, and wedge. The cylinder scene, often worn on surviving examples, remains clearly visible despite a few minor handling marks. The grip retains its original finish, showing only light wear consistent with its age.

Mechanically, the revolver remains in excellent condition. The action cocks positively, cylinder indexing is precise, and lock-up is tight with no perceptible cylinder play according to our observations. The 7½-inch barrel features a bright bore with strong rifling and only light signs of use.

Thanks to its remarkable state of preservation, untouched appearance, matching serial numbers, and excellent bore, this Colt Model 1861 Navy represents a highly desirable example for the collector of antique American percussion revolvers.