The engraving on this revolver, which was manufactured in 1853, is very similar to other revolvers identified as engraved by Gustave Young for the Colt factory by R.L. Wilson and others. A small "." is marked by the main serial numbers which was used by the factory to signify revolvers receiving engraving and/or special finishing c.1849-61. The serial numbers are matching. The engraving consists of Germanic "blackleaf" scrollwork on the sides of the barrel, loading lever, nearly all of the frame, and the upper and lower portions of the back strap and trigger guard along with some shell and border patterns and the wolf head motif on the hammer. The barrel has a small brass post/cone front sight, hand engraved "Saml Colt" in Gothic script with ornate borders, and the hand engraved "COLTS/PATENT" marking found on Young engraved revolvers is on the left side of the frame. The cylinder has the standard stagecoach scene. The deluxe grip has no visible number and has attractive figure. It comes in a partitioned hardwood case with a cap tin, double sided eagle powder flask, Colt patent dual cavity bullet mold, and six lead balls.

Fair with mostly smooth artificial gray patina, aged patina on the brass, generally crisp engraving and cylinder scene, some slight pitting, and mild overall wear. The lightly sanded and oiled grip is good and has attractive figure, smooth finish, and minor handling and storage marks. Mechanically excellent. The modern relined case is good and has a filled in key hole plate mortise, some partially loose dividers, and general storage wear. The cap tin has a replaced label. The other accessories are fair and have the appropriate wear associated with their age including dark patinas, a few dents in the flask, and mild oxidation and pitting on the sprue cutter. This is an attractive example of Gustave Young's work for Colt in the early 1850s.