This is a beautiful Model 1851 Colt Navy revolver. Engraved on the back strap is “Presented to Wm. E. Ludlow, Adgt. 10th Ind. Vols. By D.N. Morgan. June 1863”.

This is a .36 caliber revolver with 6 shot cylinder, a 7 ½” octagonal barrel with attached loading lever, brass frame with round trigger guard. Serial numbers for this model began at 85000 and ended around number 215348. This specimen is serial number 137112 which was manufactured in early 1863. The top of the barrel is marked “ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA” and the left side of the frame is marked COLTS / PATENT. The cylinder has a faint engraved cylinder scene of a battle between the Texas Navy and the Mexican Navy, and is also marked COLTS PATENT and the last four of the serial number. The grip straps were made of brass plated with silver but the silver is gone. The original grips are one piece varnished walnut. Colt stamped the serial number on the barrel, frame, cylinder, loading lever, trigger guard, back strap, and wedge and they all match.  Mechanically strong.  Gun metal is overall bright and shiny with scattered spots of darker surface patina. Brass is clean and as stated above, the back strap bears a neatly engraved presentation.  Wood shows only the lightest wear.

William E. Ludlow was born on April 7, 1836 in Elizabeth, NJ. His residence when he enlisted was Lafayette IN. He enlisted into Company E, 10th Indiana Infantry as a sergeant on September 18, 1861. He was promoted to sergeant-major on October 7.  Promoted to Adjutant in August 1862. Was Aide de Camp to General Steedman in April 1864. He was mustered out of service on September 20, 1864. The 10th Indiana served with the Army of the Ohio and in the Army of the Cumberland. Officers Killed or Mortally Wounded, 3. Officers Died of Disease, Accidents, etc., 5. Enlisted Men Killed or Mortally Wounded, 64. Enlisted Men Died of Disease, Accidents, etc., 114.

An original and complete model 1851 Colt revolver with engraved presentation to Union officer. Comes with full military and pension records as well as information on 10^th Indiana Infantry.

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