This is a solid representative original example of a U.S. contract Colt Third Model Dragoon revolver that was manufactured in 1857. The revolver has the round brass trigger guard and rectangular cylinder stops found on Third Model Dragoons. The top flat of the barrel is marked "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY-", the left side of the frame is marked "COLTS/PATENT/U.S.", the left upper front of the trigger guard is marked with a small "U". There is a small "G" on the left trigger guard shoulder, an "H" on the left side just ahead of the wedge, on the cylinder and on top of the back strap. The cylinder is roll engraved with the Ranger and Indian battle scene and marked "MODEL U.S.M.R./COLT'S PATENT". The complete matching serial number is stamped on the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard, cylinder and back strap, the partial number "6337" is on the loading lever, cylinder pin and wedge. Standard brass blade front sight and hammer notch rear sight and fitted with smooth one-piece walnut grip with a "JH" cartouche on the left side and a faint cartouche on the right. There is a crude "S.D.M." cut into the top of the left side. The Ordnance Department purchased 5,386 Colt Third Model Dragoon revolvers between 1851 and 1860. Comes with a period buffed leather belt with an 1851 Pattern Sword Belt Plate and a E. Gaylord Military Dragoon Belt Holster. Most of these revolvers saw hard use on the frontier with the U.S. Dragoons and Mounted Rifles and were subsequently used by both sides during the Civil War.

Very good plus. The metal surfaces have traces of bright original blue finish with the balance mostly a smooth mottled brown and gray patina with a very small amount of minor flash pitting on the forward edge of the cylinder. The back strap and trigger guard have a very attractive natural aged patina. The grip is also very good with some lower edge wear, some scattered minor dents and dings. As noted above, the cartouche on the left side is visible and the right only the border is visible. The cylinder scene is visible, and the markings are clear. The action is excellent. The belt is fine. The leather is drying out, and there is some wear and stains. The holster is good with some flex and general usage wear, there is a small hole in the flap, the leather is supple and the stitching is tight.