Manufactured in 1864. The revolver features the New York style scroll engraving on a punched dot background that appears to have been executed by Master Engraver Louis D. Nimschke or his shop. In addition to the scrollwork, the revolver is engraved with Nimschke's characteristic "fish fin" motif on the back strap behind the hammer, entwined lines on the bottom of the back strap and wavy line and dot borders on the edges of the trigger guard. The sides of the hammer feature a wolf's head motif. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the legend: "-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-" in a panel formed by scrollwork. The "COLTS/PATENT" marking is located on a oval the left side of the frame with engraved flourishes above and below the marking. "36 CAL" is stamped on the left trigger guard flat and surrounded by scroll engraving. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Texas Navy battle scene with hand engraved wavy line and dot borders. The full serial number "24534" is stamped on the bottom of the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard and back strap. The cylinder arbor pin is stamped with the partial serial number "4534", and the wedge and cylinder are numbered "534". All of the serial numbers match. The letter "P" is stamped on the inside of the recoil shield below the capping cut-out. A "C" is stamped on the rear face of the cylinder.
Very good. The revolver is mostly bright finish with some minor, scattered surface discoloration on the barrel and the cylinder. The trigger guard has traces of the original silver-plated finish in protected areas. The cylinder has 95% of the roll-engraved naval scene. The engraving is crisp and deep, and the factory markings and serial numbers are sharp. The percussion nipples and cylinder breech have traces of flash pitting. All of the safety pins remain solid. The grip is in fine condition and has a mellow age patina and slight shrinkage. There are two hairline age cracks visible on the bottom of the grip. The action is crisp and functions perfectly. This is a very good example of an L.D. Nimschke engraved Colt Model 1861 Navy revolver.
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