Treasures from Our West: Colt Model 1861 Navy revolver

Originally featured in Points West magazine in Spring 2012

Colt Model 1861 Navy revolver, serial number 1

The Colt Model 1861 Navy revolver was a favorite firearm used during and after the Civil War. Between 1861 and 1873, a total of 38,843 were manufactured. The first Model 1861 is on display at the Cody Firearms Museum.

This firearm bears both the serial number “1” and the manufacture date April 9, 1861. It is also one of one hundred Colt Model 1861 navy revolvers designed with a fluted cylinder. The rest of the firearm resembles a standard issue Colt Navy revolver.

It was purchased, along with the original holster, by Charles T. Sleight within a month of its manufacture date. During this time, Sleight enlisted to fight in the Civil War on behalf of the Union Army. He carried this firearm into battle—most notably at the Second Battle of Bull Run—until he was discharged in 1862 for “disability.” This firearm set the standard for Colt production from 1861 to 1873.

Colt Model 1861 Navy Revolver. On loan from Jim and Lisa Autry and Tim and Helen de Smet. L.362.2011.1

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