Collectible Colt Pocket Navy Conversion Revolver, .38 Caliber, Excellent Condition, with Holster

Colt Revolver – Pocket Navy Conversion Model (Centerfire)

Manufacture: Late 1870s – Caliber: .38 Centerfire – Excellent collector's condition – Holster included

This Colt Pocket Navy Conversion revolver in .38 Centerfire perfectly illustrates the historic transition from percussion revolvers to metallic cartridge firearms. A relic of the post-Civil War era and the great period of the American West's expansion, this specimen stands out due to its excellent state of preservation and remarkable mechanical condition.

History

Colt "conversion" revolvers hold a pivotal place in the evolution of 19th-century American firearms. Following the Civil War, the use of black-powder metallic cartridges gradually became the norm, rendering older percussion revolvers less suited to modern standards. Colt—like Remington and various independent gunsmiths—began modifying existing percussion models to make them compatible with metallic cartridges. From the 1870s onward, driven by patent developments and rising demand for cartridge-based firearms, Colt also manufactured revolvers designed specifically for this new system, utilizing frames and components from earlier models.

The Colt Model 1862 Police and Pocket Navy Conversion revolvers represent some of the most interesting variants of this era. Chambered in either .38 Rimfire or .38 Centerfire, these five-shot revolvers were produced between approximately 1873 and 1880 in various configurations, including the version featuring a 3½-inch round barrel without a loading gate. Their limited production run, direct link to the post-Civil War period, and role in the transition to metallic cartridges make them highly sought-after today by collectors of antique Colt firearms and Western-era weaponry. The Model

This Colt Model 1862 Pocket Navy Conversion revolver dates from the late production run of the late 1870s. It exhibits the typical characteristics of these later builds, utilizing components from "Pocket" models that retained their original serial numbers. The metal parts are in an excellent state of preservation. Case-hardening colors remain visible on the sides and interior of the firearm, while other surfaces have developed a beautiful, uniform, dark gunmetal patina. There is merely a small mark on the left side, which does not detract from the overall presentation. The barrel and frame markings are correct and remain clearly legible. The cylinder retains its magnificent original engraving, which is still clearly defined. The trigger guard still bears the ".31 Cal" marking—characteristic of reused parts—with no subsequent re-stamping. The "C" and "F" marks correspond to Colt quality inspectors. The serial number 310XXX—found on various parts of the frame, under the grip, on the cylinder, and inside the weapon—is matching. This confirms the gun's integrity and indicates a late production date, likely in the late 1870s. The wooden grip is original, perfectly fitted, and in excellent condition; its varnished finish shows slight natural wear that enhances its charm and authenticity.

The mechanical action is in very good condition, with virtually no play or cylinder gap. Operation is flawless regarding cylinder indexing, cocking, and firing. The 3½-inch round barrel, chambered in .38 centerfire, features an excellent, still-bright bore with crisp rifling and only moderate signs of use.

Given its state of preservation, sought-after caliber, and historical significance, this Colt Pocket Navy Conversion is a truly fine collector's piece. It represents both the technical evolution of American weaponry following the Civil War and the legendary world of the guns that won the West.

Note: This firearm is sold with a holster made by Brauer Bros. of St. Louis ("Gateway to the West"); while not dating back to the 1870s, it is a fine vintage piece that fits this Colt revolver perfectly.

The firearm comes with its official classification certificate (Category D(e)) issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.