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EXTREMELY FINE INSCRIBED COLT 1851 NAVY REVOLVER,

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:2,500.00 USD Estimated At:5,000.00 - 7,000.00 USD
EXTREMELY FINE INSCRIBED COLT 1851 NAVY REVOLVER,
"COL. CHARLES O. GRAY, 96th NYV", KIA DECEMBER 14, 1862, BATTLE OF KINSTON, NC.
Cal. 36. S# 132060. This is a standard production Colt 1851 navy revolver that was made late 1862 and finely inscribed on the back strap: "Col. C. O. Gray, 96th Regt. NYV". This revolver is a beautiful survivor retaining virtually all of its original finish. Col. Gray, the youngest Colonel in the United States army "was killed while gallantly leading an assault, by rebel fire from positions on the other side of Neuse River. He was mortally wounded as he set foot on the bridge and died two hours later as a result of that wound. Before he died, he was told that the Union victory was in large part due to his efforts.". This revolver is featured in a 12 page article by Mike Bricker in April 1993 Gun Report. "…Remember me kindly… Col. C. O. Gray, 96th Regt. N.Y.V.". Revolver is housed in an original Colt casing. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: large file of research, copy of April 1993 Gun Report article. CONDITION: extremely fine, retaining over 90% original bright blue finish, cylinder has most all its blue, only missing at bottom of barrel lug. About 50% tarnished silver plating retained, 70-80% muted case colors, 95% bright factory varnish with light edge wear. The compartmented blue baize lined walnut casing has reproduction flask and mold, original Ely cap tin, and functional key. PROVENANCE: Lifelong Collection of Robert "Mike" Bricker. (01-25013/JS). ANTIQUE. $5,000-7,000.