This First Model Dragoon was manufactured in 1848. Only around 7,000 First Model Dragoons were manufactured between 1848-1849, and they are important pieces in Colt firearms history as one of the massive "holster pistols" made by Colt following the famous Colt Walker revolvers of 1847. These revolvers were designed for mounted use by the U.S. Mounted Riflemen and 1st and 2nd U.S. Dragoons. The First Model Dragoons were followed by 2,700 Second Model Dragoons and 10,500 Third Model Dragoons. All of the Dragoon models saw considerable use during both the antebellum period and the Civil War, and were also popular out west due to their stopping power. The barrel has a German silver blade front sight and "ADDRESS SAML. COLT NEW-YORK CITY" reading from the breech towards the muzzle. The cylinder has the faintly visible Texas Ranger and Comanche Indian battle scene with "MODEL U.S.M.R." and "COLT'S PATENT" markings surrounding the serial number, and the correct oval stop slots of the First Model Dragoons. The frame has "COLT'S/PATENT/U.S." stamped on the left. Silver plated brass grip straps with a squareback trigger guard. Single letter inspection marks on various components. No cartouches visible on the grip. Matching visible serial numbers on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, butt, wedge, cylinder, cylinder pin, and correctly handwritten inside the rear channel of the grip, with a period replacement loading lever numbered "166".

Good with exhibiting a mix of smooth gray and brown patina with some areas of scattered light to mild pitting, general wear, and bright golden appearance on the brass, with a few tiny traces of original silver finish at the edges of the trigger guard. Grip is also good as sanded and revarnished, slightly undersized, with a few replacement spliced sections at the corners, and some scattered dents and scratches. Mechanically excellent.