Samuel Colt's Model 1849 Pocket was the most popular Colt revolver of the 19th century. They came out just in time for the California Gold Rush during which an easily carried handgun was a necessity, and they remained very popular during the Civil War as evidenced by numerous Civil War portraits showing Union and Confederate soldiers with privately owned '49 Pocket revolvers tucked in their belts or held in their hands. They are difficult to find in high condition since so many of them were actually used across the country in the 19th century in the tumultuous antebellum era, Civil War, and well into reconstruction, and the model is rich in variations to keep collectors busy. This outstanding example was manufactured in 1854. It has the small brass cone front sight, "{ADDRESS SAMl COLT/NEW YORK CITY}" barrel address, classic stagecoach holdup scene on the 5-shot cylinder, "COLTS/PATENT" on the left side of the frame, "3" on the left side of the barrel lug and on the cylinder, "L" and "Z" on the left side of the trigger guard, and matching serial numbers on the various metal components. It is finished in the classic percussion era Colt fashion with high polish blue on the barrel and cylinder, silver plating on the trigger guard and back strap, and case colors on the loading lever, frame, and hammer.

Excellent with 97% plus original blue finish on the barrel and cylinder, 97% plus dark original case colors, 98% plus of the original silver plating which has taken on a very dark aged patina, crisp cylinder scene and markings, flattened cylinder pins, and generally minimal light age and storage related wear overall. The grip is also excellent and has nearly all of the glossy varnish, some darker spots at the junction with the frame, and minor handling and storage wear. Mechanically excellent. This is definitely a stunning antebellum era '49 Pocket, one that would nearly be impossible to improve upon.