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LOT 188
Rare Early Production Three-Digit Serial Number 537 First Model
“Wedge Over Screw” Squareback Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver -
Serial no. 537, 36 cal., 7 1/2 inch octagon bbl., blue/casehardened/silver finish, walnut
grips. Offered here is an exceptional example of a first year production Colt Model 1851
bearing serial number 537 that was manufactured in 1850, featuring the distinctive
squareback trigger guard and wedge over screw. This is one of only approximately
800 Model 1851 Navy revolvers manufactured with the barrel wedge positioned over the
screw that distinguishes them as First Models. The Colt “Revolving Belt Pistol of Naval Caliber” was designed
between 1847 and 1850 and was initially called the Ranger Model, with 215,348 reportedly manufactured
between 1850-1873. This early production example has the early style barrel with a non-beveled loading cut out,
retaining screw located under the wedge, brass cone front sight, and “-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-”
stamped on top. The left side of the frame has the “COLT’S/PATENT” marking. The cylinder has the classic Naval
Battle of Campeche roll scene. The trigger guard has the early squareback bow. Matching visible serial numbers
marked on the loading lever, barrel, wedge, cylinder pin, cylinder, frame, trigger guard, butt, and correctly
handwritten in black ink inside the back channel of the grip.
CONDITION: Fine with a very fresh original appearance, retains 40% original blue finish, strong patterns of
original case colors showing vivid in some of the protected areas, scattered
characteristic freckling and brown and gray patina on the balance, a few small
patches of minor pitting, 90% original silver finish on the trigger guard and
grip straps with an attractive slightly tarnished original appearance, with a crisp
cylinder scene and markings overall. Grip is very fine with most of the original varnish finish with some minor
surface flaking around the lower edges, some scattered light scratches and dents, a small minor chip in the
lower front left corner, defined edges and tight fitment. Mechanically excellent. This exceptional First Model Colt
‘51 Navy would greatly enhance any comprehensive Colt firearms collection!
Provenance: The Andrew Singer Collection.
Estimate: 18,000 - 27,500
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