The Third Model Dragoon revolvers are one of the iconic firearms of the Old West and were the last of the large .44 caliber Colt "revolving holster pistols" that began with the famous Colt Walker in 1847. This revolver was manufactured in 1857 under contract with the U.S. government. Most of these revolvers saw hard use on the frontier with the 1st and 2nd Dragoons and U.S. Regiment of Mounted Riflemen during the plethora of conflicts with Native Americans in the antebellum West and were subsequently used by both sides during the Civil War. The revolver has the round brass trigger guard and rectangular cylinder stops found on Third Model Dragoons. The top flat of the barrel is marked "ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY-" and has a German silver blade front sight. The left side of the frame is marked "COLT'S/PATENT/U.S." The cylinder has the classic roll scene depicting a running battle between the Texas Rangers and the Comanche and the "MODEL U.S.M.R." and "COLT'S PATENT" markings. Matching serial numbers are found on the loading lever, cylinder, cylinder pin, wedge, barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The grip has a faint oval script "ADK" inspection cartouche stamped on the left and a faint "RHKW" cartouche on the right, and small inspection marks are found on various parts. An "X" is carved on the bottom of the trigger guard.

Very good with gray and brown patina overall, spotting, scattered patches of light pitting. The cylinder scene is light but is mostly legible, and the cylinder retains all of its six safety pins. The brass exhibits an attractive bright golden patina with numerous dings on the butt. The grip is also very good, with numerous dings on the bottom flats, scattered light scratches and handling marks, a few small chips, and lightly visible cartouches. Mechanically excellent. This attractive example of a desirable U.S. marked Colt Third Model Dragoon revolver would make a fine addition to any U.S. martial firearms collection!