The Colt's Model 1849 Pocket is the quintessential 19th century civilian revolver and belongs in every antique American firearms collection. With around 340,000 manufactured in 1850-1873, more '49 Pocket revolvers were sold during the 19th century than an other Colt model, and they are known to have been used across the country by men and women of various walks of life. This earlier '49 Pocket was manufactured in 1856 and has matching serial numbers throughout, including correctly handwritten in black ink inside the rear mortise of the grip. The barrel has a brass post front sight, the early two-line "{ADDRESS SAML COLT/NEW YORK CITY}" address, and a "2" on the left side of the lug. The cylinder has the classic stagecoach hold-up scene and patent marking. The frame has "COLTS/PATENT" on the left. The trigger guard has a small "L" on the left. The custom case contains a reproduction eagle pattern powder flask and brass dual cavity bullet mold.

Fine with 95% plus original silver plating remaining and displaying an attractive natural aged patina overall, 40% original blue finish remaining, 30% original case colors, mostly smooth gray-brown patina on the flaked or faded areas, one cylinder pin broken and lodged in the barrel, most of the cylinder pins remaining, a series of dings around the wedge slot on the right, and general mild wear. The grip is also fine and has glossy original "piano varnish" finish, light edge wear, and some small dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. The case has is separated at the rear of the lid and has otherwise minor wear. The reproduction flask and original mold are very good with aged patina and a large number of dings on the mold.