This is an example of a scarce U.S. Colt First Model Dragoon revolver that was manufactured in 1849. This revolver has the distinctive First Model oval cylinder stops and brass square back trigger guard. The top of the barrel flat is marked "ADDRESS SAMl COLT NEW-YORK CITY". The left side of the frame is marked with the letter "B" followed by "COLT'S/PATENT/U.S". Small inspection letters are present: "A" below the trigger guard serial number and "B" on the back strap. The cylinder only has the full serial number. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, barrel, trigger guard, back strap, loading lever, cylinder, arbor pin and wedge. Only an estimated 7,000 Colt First Model Dragoon revolvers were manufactured in 1848 to 1850. They 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.

Good. The revolver has a mottled gray patina mixed with some scattered mild pitting. The Ranger and Indian cylinder scene is absent. The barrel marking is crisp. The grip straps have an attractive patina with darker patina in the protected areas. The refinished grip is also good with a couple chips near the bottom, worn high edge, and minor handling marks. Mechanically needs work as cylinder does not lock.