Manufactured in 1858, the Third Model Dragoon was the most popular of all the large Colt percussion revolvers with a total production of about 10,500 manufactured from 1851 through 1861. The Third Model has the distinctive round trigger guard and was the first Colt revolver made available with a detachable stock. This Third Model Dragoon features factory floral scroll engraving much in the Nimschke style, (see "The Book of Colt Engraving" page 178), covering the barrel, barrel lug, loading lever sides, cylinder, frame and hammer sides with a simple border on the backstrap and a simple pattern on the trigger guard bow. Only a few hundred Third Model Dragoons were decorated with factory engraving. The top of the barrel flat is marked "ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK", the latter covered by the two leaf dovetailed rear sight, the left side of the frame is marked "COLTS / PATENT / U.S." in an oval panel and the left front of the trigger guard is marked with a "1". The "U.S." marking was put on the civilian revolvers as well as the military models. The matching serial number is marked on the barrel, frame, trigger guard and backstrap. The partial serial number "6663" is marked on the loading lever. The frame is cut for a stock, brass blade front sight and folding two leaf rear sight as well as the hammer notch sight. The trigger guard is brass and the backstrap is iron. The revolver is fitted with smooth one piece walnut grips with a small "H" stamped on the bottom of the left side.

Good. All metal surfaces have a dark gray patina with overall scattered minor pitting and a few minor dents on the cylinder. The brass has an even natural aged patina. The grips are very good with a couple very minor dents, a chip on the left toe and minor handling marks. The engraving is beginning to fade on the barrel and backstrap, otherwise it is clear. The markings are also clear. The action is very good. A nice example of a rare Nimschke engraved Third Model Dragoon revolver.