2020 September Premier, Volume I

LOT 82
Fine, Rare and Desirable Gustave Young Factory
Engraved Gold and Silver Plated Colt Model 1851
Navy Percussion Revolver with Tooled Holster -
Serial no. 55162, 36 cal., 7 1/2 inch octagon bbl., gold/
silver finish, antique ivory grips. This revolver was
manufactured in 1856 and has an apostrophe marked by
the matching serial numbers on the barrel, frame, trigger
guard, and back strap indicating factory engraving.
The engraving was most certainly executed by master
engraver Gustave Young and features his classic style
with floral booms and animal heads among the highly
detailed scroll engraving along with fan patterns. Note
the dog head among the scrolls on the left side of the
barrel. The overall pattern is the classic style perfected
by Young, particularly the pattern on the right side of
the barrel. The “COLTS/PATENT” marking inscribed rather
than stamped on the left side of the frame is also typical
of Gustave Young’s work. The pattern on the right side
of the barrel and loading lever is very typical of Gustave
Young’s work as is the classic wolf/dog head on the
hammer. The revolver was finished with a combination
of gold and silver plating and is fitted with a smooth
grip. The barrel has a cone front sight and the “-ADDRESS
SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-” on top of the barrel, the
Naval Battle of Campeche scene on the cylinder, and
matching serial numbers. Accompanied by a handsome
and rare tooled brown leather slim Jim holster.
CONDITION: Fine with 75% original silver plating
showing a classic “as found” patina, strong patches of
original gold plating (particularly strong on the hammer),
crisp engraving and markings including most of the
cylinder scene, a few patches of plating, and otherwise
gray patina on the cylinder. The grip is very good and
has attractive natural tones and grain, mild wear, and
small period repair, a crack, and a chip on the right.
Mechanically excellent. The holster is very good and has
mild wear and some cracking on the flap. This is a classic
Gustave Young engraved Model 1851 Navy with an
unmistakable and authentic been there look.
Estimate: 9500 - 15000
The John Fox Collection
100