^Lot 126 Colt 1861 Navy Conversion .38 RF SN: 1368

This is a Colt 1861 .36 cal. Navy percussion revolver that has been converted to cartridges. This was a "civilian" conversion, and very crudely done. Manufactured 1861, one line New York address, barrel has been shortened to 5", top strap, & ejector rod housing have been welded in place, crudely fashioned loading gate, grip have been hand checkered, action does not work. Nickel finish applied, most of which is gone. Relic condition. There is a '1' under the serial number, making this the first in a two gun set on the civilian market. Includes a holster rig with old tag that reads "Conversion Colt pistol belt & holster made from old boot top and home made knife. Bought in Butte Montana from small local antique shop". Black leather hand made holster, perfect fit to revolver, white leather belt adorned with brass beads, belt is broken. Beads have a very dark patina, and been on there a very long time. This, along with the hard use this revolver has seen, strongly Indicates Native American use. One wonders if the holster was made from a Cavalry boot. It was purchased in Montana.
Relic Condition. Antique Firearm.