"Make: Colt
Model: 1851 Navy – Ulysses S. Grant Commemorative
Serial Number: 480
Year of Manufacture: 1971
Caliber: .36 Caliber Percussion
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with a Six-Shot Cylinder
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked ""ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY."" The left side of the frame is marked ""COLT’S PATENT."" The cylinder features the Naval Battle scene roll engraving. The revolver is a factory-authorized Ulysses S. Grant Commemorative model with corresponding engravings and presentation case markings.
Barrel Length: 7.5” Octagonal Barrel
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass bead integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a notch in the hammer, which aligns with the front bead when cocked.
Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are smooth walnut, well-fitted to the frame. They show no handling wear and remain in Mint condition.
Type of Finish: Period-Correct High-Polish Blued Barrel & Cylinder, Bone-Charcoal Case Hardened Frame
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, and the rifling is sharp, confirming zero use. There is no visible erosion or fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains 100% of its original factory finish. The case-hardened frame remains vibrant, and the high-polish blued barrel and cylinder are pristine. The cylinder retains a crisp and untouched Naval Battle roll engraving with no turn lines or handling wear, confirming its unfired condition. The percussion nipples appear unused, and the cylinder safety pins remain intact.The screw heads are sharp, and the markings remain crisp and clear. There is no evidence of handling, use, or deterioration. The cylinder remains untouched, free of drag lines. This is a true time capsule piece in Near Mint, Unfired condition.
Mechanics: The action functions perfectly. The hammer locks at half- and full-cock, and the cylinder indexes smoothly and locks tightly. The mainspring has strong tension. We did not fire this revolver. As with all black powder firearms, a thorough inspection and cleaning may be necessary before use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes with its original American Historical Society walnut presentation case with ""Ulysses S. Grant Commemorative"" stamped on the lid. Also included are the original factory accessories, including:
Powder Flask
Bullet Mold
Percussion Cap Can
Our Assessment:
This Colt 1851 Navy Ulysses S. Grant Commemorative is an extraordinary, investment-grade collectible. Manufactured in 1971, this revolver was produced by Colt as part of a very limited run to commemorate the Civil War's Sesquicentennial. The Ulysses S. Grant 1851 Navy model is highly sought after, as only a small number were made, and few remain in untouched, mint condition like this example.
What makes this revolver truly remarkable is that it was purchased new from Colt in 1971 and stored untouched for over 50 years. The original owner never fired or cycled the accessories, preserving this set exactly as it was received from the factory. The cylinder has no turn lines, the finish is untouched, and the factory accessories are mint—this is truly as close to factory new as possible.
For Colt collectors, Civil War historians, and serious investors, this revolver is an exceptional and irreplaceable find. With its museum-grade condition, original accessories, and presentation case, this Ulysses S. Grant 1851 Navy Commemorative is an extraordinary opportunity to own a pristine piece of Colt history.
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