This extremely rare revolver, serial number 50, was manufactured in 1860 in the first days of production of the famous Colt Model 1860 Army revolver. This early production example has a round cylinder, the very rarely seen Model 1851 Navy sized grip and shorter 7 1/2 inch barrel. In The Book of Colt Firearms, author R.L. Wilson states: "Several rare variations exist within the Army series, and these are: 1. Approximately 55 of the first 100 revolvers have round, rebated cylinders, three screw frames NOT cut for shoulder stocks, Hartford barrel addresses, silver plated brass back straps and trigger guards, 7 1/2" barrels and Navy size grips." He further notes that: "The first 100 revolvers do not have capping channels in the recoil shield cutouts." Serial number 35 previously sold by Rock Island Auction Company (lot 1113, auction 69) also has an early round cylinder, and serial number 72 (lot 1258, auction 74), has a fluted cylinder. German silver blade front sight, "-ADDRESS SAML COLT HARTFORD CT.-" on top of the barrel, small "COLTS/PATENT" marking on the left side of the frame, the noted Model 1851 Navy sized brass grip frame with silver plated finish and small single letter inspection marks on the left side of the trigger guard, frame not cut for a shoulder stock, and a smooth oil finished walnut grip. The matching two-digit serial number "50" is marked on the barrel, wedge, cylinder, cylinder pin, frame, trigger guard, butt, and correctly handwritten in black ink inside the grip mortise. Provenance: The Brig & Louise Pemberton Collection

Very good, with a very fresh appearance overall, exhibiting natural smooth gray/brown aged patina on the iron surfaces, clear cylinder scene and markings overall, a filled in and draw filed repaired section visible on the face of the hammer, traces of original silver plating visible around the trigger guard, and bright golden aged patina on the brass with numerous small nail head dings visible on the butt characteristic of period use as a working gun. Grip is also fine with much of the original glossy piano varnish finish, some light lower edge wear and scattered dings on the butts as mentioned, and scattered light handling marks. Hammer does not remain in half cock, otherwise mechanically functions fine. This extremely rare early production serial number 50 Colt Model 1860 Army revolver would be an significant addition in any Colt collection!