Manufactured in 1851, this is a highly desirable U.S. and New Hampshire militia marked Colt Second Model Dragoon revolver. Colt manufactured 2,700 Second Model Dragoon Revolvers in 1850-1851, making this variation the rarest of all models of Colt Dragoon Revolvers. A large percentage of these revolvers were manufactured for the Army. This particular revolver is even rarer as it is one of only a few hundred that were issued to the New Hampshire and Massachusetts militias that appear within the 10,000 to the lower 11,000 serial number range. This Dragoon was issued to the New Hampshire militia with the militia marking on the left side of the barrel. Experts have estimated that there were 150 Dragoons issued to the New Hampshire militia. The revolver has the correct combination of square trigger guard and rectangular cylinder stops, which are second model features. The part octagon barrel is fitted with a nickel silver blade front sight and is stamped with the one-line New York address and the "NEW HAMPSHIRE" militia marking on the left side. The left side of the frame is stamped "COLT'S/PATENT/U.S." The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Ranger and Indian fight scene and "MODEL U.S.M.R./10267/COLT'S PATENT". The replacement wedge has been renumbered to match the revolver. Matching serial numbers are on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, back strap, loading lever, cylinder, and arbor pin. Single letter inspector marks are present on the barrel, trigger guard and back strap. A script letter cartouche is stamped on both sides of the grip.

Very good plus. The barrel retains 25% of original blue finish in and around the protected areas with the strongest amounts on the underside, otherwise a smooth brown patina. The New Hampshire marking is crisp. The cylinder has a smooth brown-gray patina and most of the scene remains. Patterns of mottled original case colors remain on the frame, hammer and loading lever. The brass has an even aged patina. The grip is very good with a repair visible on the bottom front toe, high edge wear and minor dings and scratches. Both cartouches are legible. Mechanically excellent. An extremely rare and desirable New Hampshire Militia marked Second Model Dragoon.