This very scarce Colt Hartford English Dragoon Revolver was manufactured circa 1853. The Colt English Dragoon revolvers were finished and assembled in the Colt London Armory utilizing parts manufactured at the Colt Hartford Connecticut factory. Total production was approximately 700 revolvers completed between 1853 and 1857. This revolver has the Third Model Dragoon combination of rectangular cylinder stops and rounded brass trigger guard with 7 1/2-inch half-round/half-octagon barrel. London "Crown/V" and "Crown/CP" inspection marks are stamped on the left side of the barrel lug and above each cylinder chamber. The top barrel flat is roll-stamped with the legend: "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY-" reading toward the breech. "COLTS/PATENT" is roll-stamped on the left side of the frame. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Ranger and Indian battle scene and "MODEL U.S.M.R./COLT'S PATENT" on either side of the serial number. The serial number is stamped in small numerals on the: (1) loading lever, (2) barrel lug, (3) frame, (4) trigger guard, (5) back strap and (6) cylinder. All of the visible serial numbers match. The barrel has a nickel-silver front sight blade, and the hammer has coarse hand-cut knurling on the spur. The revolver originally had a high polish British blue finish on the barrel and cylinder with casehardened loading lever, frame and hammer and silver-plated brass trigger guard and back strap. The one-piece grip is nicely figured English walnut with a varnished piano finish.

Very good plus. The barrel, loading lever, cylinder, frame and hammer now have a smooth, silver-gray patina. The cylinder retains most of the roll-engraved markings and Ranger and Indian scene. The brass trigger guard and back-strap have a good looking patina with traces of silver plating in protected areas. The barrel legend, patent markings, proofmarks and serial numbers are crisp. The cylinder pins are lightly battered but partially remain. There is some light flash pitting on the rear face of the cylinder and sides of the hammer. The walnut grip remains in fine condition and retains most of the varnish finish. Fine mechanical condition with a tight action. This is a solid example of a scarce Colt Model 1848 Dragoon variation. The Colt Hartford English Dragoon revolver is a key piece in any comprehensive collection of Colt firearms.