These revolvers were manufactured from 1853 to 1856 and serial numbered in their own range, (1-11000). This first year production example of a Model 1849 Pocket London was manufactured in 1853 with the small round brass trigger guard and back strap. This revolver also has the "X" carried after the serial number on the barrel, frame, grip straps and cylinder. According to P.L. Shumaker in his book "Colt's Variations of the Old Model Pocket Pistol, 1848 to 1872," there are an estimated 250 known London Model 1849s with the "X" serial number. It has been concluded that the "X" marking "was of an experimental nature relating to either the serial numbering system or the process of proofmarking" (page 99-100). This revolver is pictured on pages 146-147 of "Colonel Colt London" by Joseph Rosa. The top barrel flat is marked "ADDRESS COL: COLT/LONDON" inside fancy brackets. The left side of the frame is marked "COLTS/PATENT." The cylinder is roll engraved with the Stagecoach Holdup scene. The left side of the barrel lug is marked with "crown/GP" and "crown/V" London proofmarks and the same proofmarks alternate on the cylinder between the nipples. Matching numbers are found on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder, arbor pin and barrel wedge. Casehardened frame, hammer and loading lever, blue barrel and cylinder, silver plated trigger guard and back strap. Brass cone front and hammer notch rear sights and fitted with smooth one-piece walnut grip. The revolver comes in an original wooden partitioned case with an inset brass plaque on the lid and blue velvet lining. In the case is a blue finished Colt's patent two-cavity bullet mold, James Dixon & Sons powder flask (missing spring), combination tool and Eley Brothers percussion cap tin. Includes the February 2001 issue of "The Gun Report" that features an article related to the Colt London Model 1849 revolvers.

Very good plus. The revolver has a smooth brown patina overall with the barrel retaining streaks of original blue finish and the frame retaining traces of original case colors. The grip straps retain heavy amounts of original silver plating in and around the protected areas with the exposed brass having an untouched aged appearance. Most of the cylinder scene remains. The grip is fine showing high edge wear, a small chip missing near the bottom toe and some minor pressure dents and scratches with most of the finish remaining. Mechanically excellent. The case is very good with the repaired lid showing a couple of long cracks, and there are minor handling/storage marks overall and high spot wear on the otherwise fine original lining.