Only an estimated 5,000 Thuer conversions were executed by Colt around 1869-1872.This includes conversions of most of the Colt percussion revolvers. The 1849 is the rarest of all the pocket model Thuer conversions with fewer than 200 manufactured. The Thuer conversions were the first Colt metallic cartridge revolvers and are thus very desirable, and very few of these Model 1849 Pocket conversions were manufactured. The system required only fitting a specially modified cylinder with a removable breech plate that included a firing pin and a slight milled spot on the right side by the top of recoil shield cut-out. The tapered Thuer cartridges were loaded from the front of the revolver just like a paper cartridge. A percussion cylinder can be re-installed on the revolver readily which would allow for use with either traditional cap and ball loads or metallic cartridges. The back of the cylinder has "F" and "39," and the back of the breech plate is also marked "39" and has "PAT.SEP./15.1868." on the left side and an "E" on the right. Other than the wedge ("97168") and cylinder (blank), the serial numbers all match. The serial numbers on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap all also have the "L" marking designating them for Colt's London Depot at 14 Pall Mall and date to 1867. Both the barrel and cylinder have the appropriate London proof and view marks. The left side of the trigger guard has "31 CAL." The grip frame is the steel type used on some of the London Colts. Steel grip frames were also used on around 175 of the Hartford revolvers. The case has an added or replaced London Depot label, a cleaning rod, L-shaped combination tool, "COLT'S/PATENT" dual cavity bullet mold, empty Colt tin for "250/WATERPROOF/CAPS/FOR RELOADING/COLT'S/METALLIC CENTRAL-FIRE/CARTRIDGES" with the Pall Mall address, and key.

Fine with 50% original blue finish, strong case colors on the hammer, mottled gray patina on the balance, patches of mild pitting, and mild edge wear. The markings and cylinder scene remain distinct. The grip is fair and has patches of original varnish, some flaking, moderate edge wear, and general scratches and dings. Mechanically excellent. The case and accessories are very good. This is a very rare revolver. The American marked Thuers are already exceedingly rare, but those sent to London are almost unheard of making this among the rarest of the already scarce Thuer conversion revolvers.