This is an original example of a highly sought after U.S. inspected four screw frame variant Colt 3rd Model Dragoon Revolver that was manufactured in 1858. This late production revolver was manufactured for a detachable shoulder stock and has the four-screw frame, slotted recoil shields and a slot cut in the bottom of the back strap. The revolver has a three leaf folding rear sight mounted in a dovetail cut on the breech end of the barrel and a German silver blade front sight. The revolver has the oval trigger guard and rectangular cylinder stops that distinguish the 3rd Model Dragoon Revolvers from the 1st and 2nd Model Colt Dragoons. The barrel, iron back strap and cylinder were blue, casehardened frame, loading lever and hammer and a silver plated brass trigger guard. The top barrel flat has the standard markings "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY-" reading toward the breech, part of the address is obliterated by the rear sight dovetail, and the left side of the frame is marked "COLTS/PATENT/US". The cylinder is roll engraved with the Ranger and Indian fight scene and there is a small "G" on the left trigger guard shoulder, "C" on the cylinder and a "K" behind the trigger guard bow and on the top of the back strap. The complete matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the barrel lug, frame, cylinder, trigger guard and back strap, with the partial number "6801" on the loading lever, wedge and arbor pin. Fitted with a smooth one-piece walnut grip with "GGG" cartouche on the lower left side and "WAT" on the right.

Near fine overall. The crisp, untouched original metal surfaces have a mottled brown patina with some pitting on the right side of the frame, barrel lug and rammer, and a small area on the cylinder. Shadows of the case colors are visible. The brass has an attractive aged patina with some corrosion on the trigger guard bow. The grip is fine with some wear on the lower edges and a few minor dents and handling marks. Both cartouches are intact, but faint. The excellent cylinder scene is nearly all intact, while the remaining markings are all crisp. The action is excellent.