A total of 11,000 Colt London Model 1849s were manufactured from 1853 to 1856 and serialized in their own range (1-11000). Manufactured in 1853 during the first year of production, this early two digit serialized Colt London Model 1849 revolver is one of approximately 265 revolvers that fall into the first model collector grouping. The first models were manufactured in Hartford and finished and marked in London to jump start Colt's business in England. The top of the barrel is marked "ADDRESS SAML COLT/LONDON" without brackets. British crown/letter proofs are found on the left side of the barrel lug and on the rear of the cylinder between the chambers. The frame is marked "COLT'S/PATENT" on the left side. The cylinder has the stagecoach holdup scene. Matching numbers are located on the barrel, frame, grip straps, loading lever, cylinder and cylinder pin. It has the seldom encountered silver plated grip straps and fitted with a one-piece grip. This revolver is pictured and described on page 148 of "Colonel Colt London" by Joseph Rosa. This revolver may well have been one of the first 50 pocket 5-inch revolvers Colt sent to London in December 1851. This shipment is discussed in William Edwards' book "The Story of Colt's Revolver" on page 291. It is pictured on page 148 of Colonel Colt London.

Very good. The revolver has a mottled gray patina with some very scattered light pitting. Most of the cylinder scene remains. The grip straps have an attractive appearance. The repaired grip is good with a series of pressure dents on the bottom. The action is tight and will function with a strong thumb.