This Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver was manufactured in 1854 and was factory engraved by Gustave Young's shop. 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 scrollwork on the left side of the barrel lug and on the hammer. 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. Note that a Young shop ledger dated September 1854 reprinted in Wilson's book on page 56 lists serial numbers 96956 and 96958, which are both one serial number away from this revolver, as factory engraved Model 1849s with 5 inch barrels. Also note that 96958 is listed twice; one is likely an error representing this revolver. It has the standard post and notch sights and a varnished, nicely figured, walnut grip. The cylinder has the stagecoach scene. Matching numbers are found on the barrel, frame, grip straps, cylinder, loading lever, barrel wedge and cylinder pin. It comes in a red velvet lined partitioned case holding lead balls, Colt's patent two-cavity brass bullet mold, combination tool, double face eagle powder flask, package of combustible envelope cartridges and cap tin. The top of the lid has a presentation inscription on a silver oval plaque that reads, "E.C. Avery/to/Col. W.H. Coyle." Research has found that a Lieutenant Colonel William H. Coyle served with the 9th Iowa Infantry from Dubuque, Iowa, during the Civil War. E. C. Avery had contracts as a U.S. postal carrier in the antebellum era covering routes in eastern Iowa including Dubuque.

Fine as refinished. The revolver retains 90% of the blue finish thinning to a gray. The frame has an antique appearance. The loading lever is mostly a gray patina. The grip straps retain 80% of the silver plating. The revarnished grip is fine with a small chip missing near the bottom and a few minor handling marks. Mechanically fine. The case is refinished case is fine with a few hairline cracks and high spot wear on the relined interior.