Only an estimated 2,700 Second Model Dragoon revolvers were manufactured from 1850 to 1851 compared to 7,000 of the First Model Dragoons and 10,500 Third Model Dragoons. They are thus by far the rarest of the primary Colt Dragoon revolvers, and offered here is an exceptional example. The combination of rectangular cylinder stops and square-back brass trigger guard clearly identify the revolver as a Second Model Dragoon. The barrel has a German silver blade front sight and is marked "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-" on the top flat. The loading lever has a vertical catch. The left side of the frame is stamped with the "M" inspection mark followed by "COLT'S/PATENT/U.S." The cylinder has the Texas Ranger and Indian fight scene along with the "MODEL U.S.M.R./COLT'S PATENT" marking. Small single letter inspection marks such as "M", "K" and "H" are present on various components. The wedge is a replacement ("072"). The matching full serial numbers are on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, back strap, loading lever, cylinder, and arbor pin. A dot is stamped under the frame serial number. Each side of the grip has a script letter cartouche: "JH" on the left and "WAT" on the right. The U.S. contract Colt Dragoon revolvers were used primarily by the First and Second Dragoon Regiments and the Regiment of Mounted Riflemen.

Near excellent. The barrel retains 95% strong original blue finish with the balance slightly thinning and mixing with untouched natural patina. Even the bore retains most of its original blue finish, indicative of a revolver that has seen little to no use. The cylinder retains 60% plus original blue finish over an excellent and complete cylinder scene, with full blue in each chamber, again an indication of little use. The missing blue is primarily on one side of the cylinder, where it obviously laid for a long period of time. The percussion nipples show minimal wear, and the cylinder safety pins are excellent and way above average condition. Patterns of original case colors remain on the loading lever still vibrant in flashes. The hammer and frame retain 90% strong and proud original case colors. The barrel and frame markings are crisp. The brass grip straps have an attractive aged appearance. The grips show much hand-polished oil finish and typical slight age shrink but are excellent with a few minor handling marks, and strong, clear cartouches. Mechanically excellent as well. Surviving examples of U.S. Second Model Dragoons (especially Martial examples) are scarce and highly desirable in any condition, with this example being among the best known. We rarely catalog examples of this high quality. A definite must have for the serious Colt or U.S. martial collector looking for only the best!