Colt Third Model Dragoon revolver manufactured circa 1853. The revolver is factory engraved and fitted with a one-piece ivory grip. The revolver is accompanied by a letter from noted firearms dealer and consultant Herb Glass. The letter states that this is an original factory engraved Colt Dragoon revolver and that the engraver has not been identified by collectors. The letter also notes the engraving has several unique features that include combination of punch dot and cross backgrounds on the frame, engraving on the muzzle that resembles that found of deluxe Paterson revolvers and a scroll engraved border on the front of the cylinder. In addition to the distinctive engraving, the revolver has a blue frame and loading lever as opposed to the casehardened frame and lever found on nearly all Colt Dragoon revolvers. The Glass letter notes that three other engraved Dragoon revolvers have been identified in the 13,000 serial number range. Two of these revolvers (13,128 and 13551) are a cased pair with blue frames, engraving by an unidentified Colt engraver and lanyard loops. In addition to the unique engraving and blue frame, the revolver has a silver-plated brass trigger guard and back strap and one-piece ivory grip. The butt is fitted with a lanyard ring. The hammer has bordered knurling on the spur with the top engraved with a fish scale motif and the sides are scroll engraved. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped "{ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY}" in a panel with scalloped borders. "COLT' S/PATENT" is roll-stamped on the left side of the frame is a scroll work panel. A small "F" and "V" are stamped on the left side of the trigger guard bow and a small "X" is stamped on the left side of the trigger guard at the junction with the grip. The serial number, "13625" on the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard and back strap are surrounded by an engraved shield. In addition to the engraved scroll work border on the front edge, the cylinder has the standard Colt Ranger and Indian scene and is stamped with the full serial number "13625". The partial serial number "3625" is stamped on the top of the loading letter. The Glass letter notes that all the parts on the revolver are original with the exception of the wedge which is an un-numbered Colt replacement.

Very good. The barrel, lever, cylinder, frame and hammer have a dark patina. The engraving and markings on the barrel, lever and fame are crisp. The cylinder has moderate to heavy firing wear and only traces of the Ranger and Indian scene remain visible. The nipples and rear face of the cylinder have moderate-heavy flash pitting. There is heavy flash pitting in the hammer well and on the front and sides of the hammer. The fine ivory grips are original to the revolver but have shrunk slightly and have several hair-line age cracks. The action is worn but functional. This is a rare Colt factory engraved Third Dragoon revolver with unusual blue frame and lever, lanyard ring, ivory grips and letter of authentication.