This rare example is the first of the Dragoon molds, of the type furnished with the second government contract of 1847-1848 for the First Model Dragoon revolvers. The right block is marked "COLTS/PATENT" (at an angle) above the desirable initials "W.A.T" of U.S. inspector William A. Thornton. Made of brass with a casehardened iron sprue-cutter, this early Dragoon mold has a round ball and a conical without a grease groove as seen in the next variations. Another example of this type of bullet mold is pictured and described on pages 221, 223, 228 and 229 of the book, "Colt Percussion Accoutrements" First Edition by Robin J. Rapley.

Good with attractive golden aged patina on the brass with numerous scattered period dings, sharp markings, and smooth brown patina on the iron sprue-cutter. This desirable "W.A.T" inspected Colt .44 bullet mold is a must have to accompany a U.S. First Model Dragoon revolver!