(A) COLT MODEL 1851 NAVY PERCUSSION REVOLVER INSCRIBED TO "G. CHORPENNING C. & S.L. MAIL".

Manufactured circa 1857. The 7 - 1/2" octagon barrel is marked on the top flap with 1-line New York address and fitted with a silver blade front sight. 1-piece varnished walnut grips retained by steel grip straps. The back strap inscribed, likely at a later date, to "G. Chorpenning C. & S.L. Mail". George Chorpenning, born in Pennsylvania in 1820, headed West to California to participate in the Gold Rush. Realizing the need for reliable mail service, he obtained a government contract to carry the first overland mail to California between Sacramento and Salt Lake City in 1851, and later in 1854 from San Diego to Salt Lake City. In 1858, he added stage service to his California & Salt Lake Mail route. After losing his government contract in 1860, the famed Pony Express utilized his way stations. During the Civil War, Major Chorpenning organized the 1st and 2nd Maryland. CONDITION: Overall good. Gun displays an evenly worn gray patina with scattered marks and cleaned oxidation spots. Grips retain portions of original varnish, with heavy wear. Strong, black powder abraded bore. Fine mechanics. Matching numbers observed throughout. Barrel Length: 7 - 1/2" Caliber/Bore: .36 Percussion FFL Status: Antique Manufacturer: Colt Model: 1851 Navy Serial Number: 66219