This is a solid example of a Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket revolver that was manufactured in 1860. This revolver featured factory scroll and punch dot engraving on the rear sides of the loading lever, barrel lug and rear upper flats, the frame, trigger guard bow, butt and upper and lower backstrap. The hammer sides are engraved with the distinctive wolf head motif and the side of the barrel has a dogs head. The top of the backstrap has a shell design. The top barrel flat is hand engraved "Saml Colt", the lower left side of the barrel lug is marked "2" and the left side of the frame is marked "COLTS / PATENT" in an oval panel. The cylinder is roll engraved with the stagecoach holdup scene. The complete matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the barrel, frame, trigger guard, cylinder and backstrap with a dash below the latter three, (signifying engraving or special finish), the wedge is marked with the partial serial number "73288" and the arbor pin and loading lever "3288". The loading lever and frame were casehardened, the barrel and cylinder blue and the grip frame silver plated brass. The revolver is fitted with a smooth one piece ivory grip. Gustave Young's shop, or quite possibly himself, executed the engraving on this fine Colt Model 1849 revolver.

Very good. The metal surfaces have a smooth gray patina with traces of the original blue finish in the protected areas of the barrel. There is some minor pitting on the barrel and cylinder. The cylinder scene is mostly visible and the patent marking and serial number are clear. The trigger guard retains 30% of the original silver plating which is concentrated in the protected areas and there are strong traces on the top of the backstrap. The balance has a pleasant aged patina. The slightly undersized ivory grip is also very good with several minor age cracks and a mellow aged patina. The action needs work, the hammer doesn't always cock properly. The remaining markings and engraving are clear.