This beautifully factory engraved Model 1849 Pocket was manufactured in 1855. It has the dot marking by the serial numbers which was used to denote factory engraved revolvers produced between 1849 and 1861. Gustave Young worked for Colt from 1852 until the mid to late 1860s. The 75% plus coverage floral scroll and punch dot engraving patterns match other Young engraved Colt revolvers from the 1850s. See the Colt shooting prize Model 1851 revolver on page 59 in "The Book of Colt Engraving" by R. L. Wilson for a very similar revolver and note the similar dog head designs worked into the scroll work on the left side of the barrel lug and on the hammer. Also see the revolver on the previous page which has a similar eagle head design to the one among the scrolls on the right side of the barrel lug of this revolver. Other designs such as the hand engraved "COLTS/PATENT" marking on the left side of the frame, the shell design on the sides and top of the back strap, and the "SAML COLT" marking on the barrel closely match other known Young engraved Colt revolvers. It has the standard post and notch sights and a varnished checkered walnut grip. The cylinder has the stagecoach scene. The serial numbers match (cylinder pin not marked). There are also some small single markings such as "5"s near the serial number on the frame and trigger guard and a "2" on the bottom left of the barrel lug. It comes in a more modern case with an English style fit. The case includes several lead ball and conical bullets, some loose percussion caps, a key, an appropriate silver finished eagle powder flask, silver plated brass Colt patent dual cavity bullet mold, and "Combustible Envelope" cartridge package (empty) marked "EXPRESSLY FOR/COL. COLT'S PATENT/REVOLVING/POCKET PISTOL/ADDRESS/COLT'S CARTRIDGE WORKS/HARTFORD. CONN./U.S. AMERICA".

Fine as period replaced. The revolver has a mostly bright appearance and retains 95% of the original silver plating on the back straps and trigger guard. There is some areas of light to mild pitting most notably on the left side rear of the frame. The grip is very good and has crisp checkering, minor edge wear, and some slight chips. Aside from the cylinder scene, the markings and designs are clear. It is mechanically excellent. The relined case is fine with some stains, tears, and indents on the lining and some mild storage type wear. The accessories are fine. Both the flask and bullet mold retain 95% plus of the silver plating.