Manufactured in 1851, only 2,700 Second Model Dragoon revolvers were manufactured in 1850 and 1851 before the Third Model came on the market, making this model the scarcest of the three models. This particular revolver is extremely rare in that it is one of only a few hundred that were issued to the New Hampshire and Massachusetts militias. These Dragoons fell into the serial number range of 10,000 to the early 11,000s. The left side of the barrel is marked " NEW HAMPSHIRE". The top of the rear barrel flat is marked "--ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY--", the left side of the frame is marked "COLT'S/PATENT/U. S." The complete matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard, back strap, loading lever and cylinder. The wedge is numbered "096" or "960". The frame and loading lever were casehardened, the barrel and cylinder blue and the trigger guard and back strap are brass. The cylinder is roll engraved with the Ranger and Indian scene, with matching serial number. The frame is three screw with no provision for stock mounting. The trigger guard is stamped "Q" ahead of the bow, and a small "C" is marked on the left side front of the trigger guard bow and a small "H" on the cylinder. The grips are one piece smooth walnut with a clear "WAT" cartouche on the right side and "JH" on the left side.

Fine. The metal surfaces retain 30% plus original blue finish with the balance a smooth crisp mottled brown patina with a few minor dings on the rear portion of the barrel. The brass has a protective coating on it and remains bright. The grip is also fine with some minor lower edge wear, and some scattered minor dents, dings and scratches. The very fine cylinder scene is nearly all intact and visible, and all markings are clear. The action is excellent. An extremely scarce, fine and desirable New Hampshire Militia marked Colt Second Model Dragoon.