This is one of the 2nd U.S. government contract for 1,000 Dragoons, issued immediately after the Walker Colt's and has the characteristics noted by Flayderman within the theoretical larger group of First Model Dragoons listed as "Fluck/Walker Replacement/Pre-1st Model Dragoons" manufactured in 1848. Note the smaller serial number numerals and additional markings on the barrel and loading lever. Colt Dragoons are important to collectors of antique American revolvers in general and Colts in particular as one of Samuel Colt's large "holster pistols" descended from the famous Colt Walker. This example also has U.S. Ordnance Department markings and was very likely used by the U.S. Regiment of Mounted Riflemen or the 1st or 2nd U.S. Dragoons on the western frontier in the antebellum era. It has a German silver blade front sight, "ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY" reading from the breech towards the muzzle on the top of the barrel, oval stops and the U.S.M.R. roll-scene on the cylinder, "COLTS/PATENT/U.S." on the left side of the frame, the square-back trigger guard, government cartouche and inspection marks, "17" on the loading lever and bottom of the barrel, and matching serial numbers on the barrel, wedge, cylinder, frame, and grip straps. No numbers are visible on the cylinder pin or grip.

Very good with mottled gray and brown patina on the iron along with some minor oxidation/pitting, attractive aged patina on the grip straps, general mild wear, generally distinct markings aside from the cartouche, partially legible cylinder scene, chips at the toe of the grip, and mild edge wear. Mechanically excellent. This is a very solid representative of the important Colt First Model Dragoon, an important early successor of the Colt Walker revolver.