This factory engraved Model 1849 Pocket was manufactured in 1854. Gustave Young's shop were the primary engravers for Colt from 1852 until the mid to late 1860s. The intricate scroll engraving, hand engraved "COLTS/PATENT" marking on the frame and hand engraved "SAML COLT" "presentation style" marking on the barrel match other Young engraved Colt revolvers from the 1850s. For example, "The Book of Colt Engraving" by R. L. Wilson includes multiple revolvers with similar dog head designs worked into the scroll patterns. The dog head on this revolver appears on the left side of the frame. The hammer has Young's classic wolf/hound head motif. The cylinder has the standard stagecoach scene. Matching full or partial serial numbers appear on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, back strap, loading lever, cylinder, wedge, and arbor pin. A dot, which indicated special finishing by the factory, is stamped below or above the serial numbers to the main components (barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap).

Very good plus. The grip straps retain most of the original silver plating and traces of original blue finish remain no the barrel, otherwise the untouched original revolver has a smooth gray patina associated with a well traveled sidearm proving that not all art hangs on the wall. Much of the cylinder scene remains. The engraving is crisp. The grip is fine with minor handling marks and much of the original varnish remaining. Mechanically needs work as cylinder does not always rotate properly when action is cycled.