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CONDITION: Excellent plus, as issued. The revolver is about as near to mint
as possible for a military contract revolver from more than a century and
a half ago. 98% plus of the original vibrant original case colors remain along with 98% plus of the original blue finish which displays only some light age relating fading mainly on the barrel lug and edges of the cylinder. The screws also retain nearly all of their bright original niter blue finish
and mostly appear unturned since inspection back in 1857. The grip frame displays attractive natural aged patina. The grip is also excellent plus and displays distinct cartouches, very slight lower edge wear, and a few minor handling and storage marks. Mechanically excellent. The leather accessories are all fine and have mild wear including crackling. The Colt tool and military inspected mold are very fine and have 85% plus of the original blue finish remaining. This is a truly astounding find. Nearly all Colt Model 1851 Navy revolvers show signs of use, and this is especially the case for the U.S. Army contract revolvers that were widely used during the American Civil War. Provenance: The Greg Martin Collection; The Greg Lampe Collection. Estimate: 95,000 - 180,000
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