Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
This .36 caliber percussion revolver features a 7½ inch octagonal barrel marked:
“Address Col Saml Colt. New York. U.S. America”.
The battle scene cylinder engraving, still shows good remnants, though partly worn — typical of honest use. Roll-engraving.
The safety pins on the rear of the cylinder appear mostly intact, a desirable feature for originality.
British London proof marks are clearly visible on the barrel and cylinder, confirming its export status, along with the “L” suffix to the serial number (157389-L), which appears on all major components.
The London proof marks: Visible on the frame and the cylinder (crown over "V" and crown over "CP"), verifying it as a British proofed Colt 1851 Navy, likely assembled or sold through Colt’s London agency (1853–1857), or sent later for private sale.
Notably, this revolver is configured with iron (blued steel) trigger guard and backstrap, as correct for London-market and military contract models, in contrast to the more common brass fittings found on domestic Hartford production pieces. The revolver has developed a deep, honest aged patina consistent with age, with no signs of modern refinishing or aggressive cleaning.
All serial numbers match, and the mechanics remain sound, with the hammer holding on full and half cock and indexing correctly. The grips appear original and well-shaped, with only minor handling wear.
Overall Condition: Very good, honest, and original Colt pistol.
Finish: Patinated steel with minor oxidation; mechanically functional.
Furnishings: All steel guard and backstrap (London contract type)
Proofs: London barrel and cylinder proofs; correct “L” suffix.
A collectors piece.
Measurements
Length of barrel 7.5 inches
Wieght
Peter Harris Clocks & Militaria has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
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Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver – London Proofed Export Model (Serial No. 157389-L) Circa 1863. "Col Saml Colt. New York. U.s. America”. A Rare & Original Pistol.
