This revolver was manufactured in 1853 and features a very distinctive early style of factory engraving prior to Gustave Young becoming Colt's primary engraving contractor. The engraving consists of a borders at the muzzle and breech ends of the barrel, complex interlacing scrollwork with foliate accents and beaded backgrounds, gadroon designs on the left side of the barrel lug and right sight below the capping cut-out, fan/shell designs on the right side of the barrel leg as well as the top of the back strap, presentation style "Saml Colt" inscription in the place of the barrel address, "COLTS/PATENT" inscribed in a banner on the left side of the frame in place of the usual stamped marking, additional banners around the serial numbers on the frame and butt, a chevron design on the knurled hammer spur, and a bestial motif on the hammer similar to the wolf head design that became popular later. The revolver also features a brass cone front sight, hammer notch rear sight, the classic stagecoach hold-up scene on the cylinder, "C" on the left side of the trigger guard, "W" below the serial number on the trigger guard finial, the factory dot marking designating factory engraving marked by the serial numbers along the bottom, and matching serial numbers on the cylinder, wedge, arbor, loading lever, barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap.

Very good with crisp engraving and markings, 85% original silver plating remaining on the grip frame and displaying attractively aged patina, 20% original blue remaining most visible towards the muzzle and in the protected areas on the lower barrel flats, smooth gray and brown patina on the balance, and fairly minor wear. The grip is also fine and has mild handling wear and most of the original varnish. Mechanically fine. Overall, a very attractive and early example of a factory engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket.