Welcome to today’s Photo of the Day! Here we have serial number 389, a Colt First Model 1851 Navy “Wedge Over Screw” revolver manufactured in 1850 during the California Gold Rush. This is one of only approximately 800 Model 1851 Navy revolvers made with the barrel wedge positioned over the screw on the barrel lug. Samuel Colt introduced the 1851 Navy in 1850 as a lighter, more balanced alternative to the dragoon revolvers. The .36 caliber Navy was designed for belt carry and became one of the most popular revolvers of the percussion era. The name “Navy” came from the naval battle scene roll-engraved on the cylinder, not from military adoption.
First Model 1851 Navys feature the squareback trigger guard and the barrel wedge positioned directly over the screw in the barrel lug. After about 800 guns, Colt moved the wedge forward and changed to a rounded trigger guard, creating the Second Model. These early First Models are among the most desirable 1851 Navy variations. Serial number 389 is an extremely early three-digit example from 1850 when Colt was still refining the design. Matching serial numbers appear on the loading lever, barrel, cylinder, frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The wedge is numbered 142 and is a period replacement.
The California Gold Rush in 1850 created massive demand for firearms on the West Coast. Colt’s revolvers were perfectly suited for rough conditions and lawless mining camps. Many early 1851 Navys shipped directly to California markets where they commanded premium prices. The 1851 Navy remained in production through 1873 with over 200,000 manufactured. These early First Model examples represent less than half of one percent of total production.
Most of our POTDs utilize images from our friends at Rock Island Auction Company, the premier firearms auction in the United States. Take some time to browse their current auctions – who knows, maybe you’ll find a piece of history to take home!
“Scarce and Desirable Early Production, Three-Digit Serial Number 389 Colt ‘Squareback’ First Model 1851 ‘Wedge Over Screw’ Percussion Revolver.” Rock Island Auction, www.rockislandauction.com/detail/1049/3311/serial-number-389-colt-squareback-first-model-1851-revolver. Accessed 14 Jan. 2026.
Writer | TheFirearmBlog
Writer | AllOutdoor.com Instagram | sfsgunsmith Old soul, certified gunsmith, published author, avid firearm history learner, and appreciator of old and unique guns.
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