Colt 1851 Navy Brevete Revolver

Colt 1851 Navy Brevete Revolver - Inventory Number: HAN 308

In 1851 Colt’s patent agent in Liege, William E. Newton, made a deal with multiple gun makers to manufacture licensed copies of the Model 1851 Navy. Ten francs was settled upon royalty. Nicolas Joseph Gilon was one of these makers. Several other countries saw licensed copies as well, like Austria and Russian, etc. 

With only limited production capabilities at Samuel Colt's factories, numerous European makers began legally and illegally manufacturing revolvers using Colt's patents. Upon inspection at the proof house, a royalty was charged and the revolver marked, in this case on the top barrel flat with "COLT PATENT", in addition to the standard proofs. It is fitted with a 7 - 1/2" .36 caliber blued octagon barrel with brass pin front sight, 6 shot percussion cylinder with well executed scroll engraving. A profusely engraved case-hardened frame and loading lever with case colors.  A super detailed brass grip strap with round trigger guard, and intensely carved floral walnut grip. CONDITION: Excellent - retaining most of its original finish.  Excellent bore with strong rifling. Crisp mechanics. Numbers13,406 with a sub marking of 18 matching on barrel, frame and trigger guard.              

This example is one made under license and thought to have been produced by the legendary French maker, Louis-François Devisme. Born in 1806, Louis François-Devisme (pronounced (“De-Veme”) began his gunsmithing career in 1834 when he opened a shop on 36 Boulevarde des Italiens in Paris. Quickly establishing himself as a purveyor of high-grade goods, his business took off and, in relatively short order, he became one of the most renowned French makers of the mid-19th century.

Devisme wares were prized by the aristocracy, military officers and the bourgeoisie. General Robert E. Lee himself owned a magnificent sword by Devisme, which had been presented to him by an anonymous donor. This was the sword he wore to Appomattox, Virginia, during the Surrender to Union Forces. He was not the only Confederate general to have arms produced by Devisme, a name which was synonymous with high end quality and style. Jefferson Davis owned a pistol by Devisme, which fired unique exploding bullets.

However, Devisme did produce more utilitarian items for use by less prestigious owners, which constituted a good deal of the firm’s output. While always of the highest quality, they lacked luxury appointments of the more upmarket items. They also were often made at least in part by contractors, such as Belgian maker Auguste Francotte.

An incredible specimen of art and artifact!

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Inventory Number: HAN 308