Offered here is a spectacular London Colt Dragoon revolver heavily decorated in gold damascene. The revolver has been documented in R.L. Wilson's "The Book of Colt Engraving" on page 119 and "The Colt Engraving Book, Volume One" on page 220. As Wilson declares, "Number 529 London Colt Dragoon represents the finest known example of gold damascene decoration on a percussion Colt revolver." It is believed that the damascene as seen on a few Colt percussion revolvers was done by Indians either living in England or India. The revolver is one of 700 Third Model Hartford London Dragoon revolver manufactured by Colt for sale in England between 1853 and 1857. These Dragoons were serial numbered in there own range of 1 to 700. Its believed that the basic manufacturing of these Dragoons was done in Hartford and most were finished at the London factory. Near full coverage gold damascene is featured on the barrel, loading lever, cylinder, frame and hammer. The grip straps and trigger are plated in gold. The grip is one-piece varnished walnut. The top barrel flat is marked "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY-" on a gold background. "COLTS/PATENT" on a gold background is marked on the left side of the frame. Within the damascene are British proofs stamped on the left side of the barrel lug and cylinder. The revolver has the two basic Third Model features: rectangular cylinder stops and rounded trigger guard. The serial number "529" is found on the loading lever, barrel wedge, cylinder, frame, trigger guard and back strap. The partitioned oak London case is lined in blue velvet. With the revolver are accessories: period replated gold plated "COLTS/PATENT" marked two cavity bullet mold, unmarked percussion cap tin, J. Blanch & Son percussion cap tin, combination tool and plain James Dixon and Sons powder flask.

Exceptionally fine as period embellished. The revolver retains 85% of the gold damascene with the balance a smooth dark patina. The grip is fine with a number of pressure dents and retaining most of the finish. Mechanically excellent. The case is fine with some minor handling/storage marks and high spot wear on the otherwise fine lining. Provenance: Glenn Gierhart Collection and Robert M. Lee Collection.