Colt 1851 Navy Model .36 in percussion revolver, 1855

Bearing British War Department broad arrow and view marks.

The American six chamber Colt 1851 Navy revolver was invented by Samuel Colt. Five thousand were purchased for British Army use in the Crimean War (1854-1856) and distributed to officers and infantry sergeant-majors. A much larger number were purchased for issue to the Royal Navy. Although the term 'Navy' refers to the engraving on the cylinder and not to its specific use by naval forces, initial orders in 1854 were destined for the British Baltic fleet. Many officers also purchased Colts privately to take with them to the Crimea. Because of wartime pressures the War Department ownership and inspection marks usually stamped on the frame and grips of these weapons were not applied until after their return to England for refurbishment once the Crimean campaign was over.