Colt 1851 Navy
I have a Colt 1851, second model that has had a buckhorn style rear sight that was added. My question is, how much does this detract from the value of this otherwise all original antique Colt pistol?
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IMHO it really Kills the value . However others MAY have a different opinion . Modified guns never bring as much as original unless it can be proven it was modified by Factory as a ONE OFF or by a famous Person. 0 -
It really depends on the value without the alteration: mechanical condition, matching numbers, cylinder scene, finish, etc. Pictures would be a big help. 0 -
quote:However others MAY have a different opinion
call the Colt Co., ask if they can remove that sight, weld in the dove tail, refinish it, verify it was done by Colt, IF yes, send a detailed letter to the "custom shop" or according to their instructions.
i have been told this can be done.., it will cost you around $1,000.00 to $1,500.00, (?)
where did you get ?
what did you pay for it ?
can you post a few good photos ?
do you know any of it's history ?
do you know where to look for matching numbers ?
i will buy high quality original Colts......., sooo, my opinion is it is a total disaster. [8]0 -
Along with the M1849 Colt Pocket revolver, the M1851 Navy is the most common of the percussion Colts encountered. Thys, unless they are in primo condition, are factory engraved or have a documented historical association, they rarely will finance your retirement.
The buckthorn sights could detract from the value of your gun up to 50%, and even having the sight remove will also lessen the value of the gun.....and the cost of doing so will approach the retail value of the gun-regardless of its condition.
How do I know? I am a long time collector of all 3 generations of Colt percussion revolvers with over 150 Colts in my collection and an extensive library of Colt reference books. IStarting with an original Texas Paterson, I own an original example of every model percussion revolver made by Colt....and this follows through with the 2nd and 3rd generations.0 -
Gentlemen, thanks to all of you for the insights on this Colt. The gun was purchased by the company I work for, to be sold in an antique store. The gun has all matching numbers, but the condition is roughly 20-25%. They paid 1500 bucks for it. I'm not a collector of antique Colts, but I don't see much room, if any at all for profit on this pistol, but maybe I'm wrong. Again, thanks for your replies and if there is anything else to add, please do so.
-Mitch0 -
$1500 for a 25% Navy?
Walk away from it.0
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