This revolver was manufactured in 1855 when Gustave Young is believed to have become Colt's primary engraving contractor and displays the beautiful Germanic scroll engraving Young is famous for. The left side of the barrel also incorporates a detailed floral bloom, and the use of rayed ornamentation and floral blooms are attributes associated with Young's work for Colt in the mid-1850s. The engraving is featured on the breech half of the barrel, the sides of the loading lever, all of the frame, the sides of the hammer, and onto the grip straps. The hammer has the classic wolf's head motif. While standard finish on these revolver was silver plating on the grip straps, this revolver's grip straps were gilded. As with many identified Gustave Young engraved Colts, the barrel has "Saml Colt" inscribed in place of the usual barrel address, and "COLTS/PATENT" is inscribed among the engraving on the left side of the frame instead of the usual stamped marking. The barrel also features a brass cone front sight and a "6" on the left side of the lug. The cylinder has the standard stagecoach scene and patent markings. The serial numbers on the loading lever, wedge, arbor pin, cylinder, barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap match, and the factory apostrophe marking used on arms designated for engraving is marked by the lower serial numbers, and a "4" is also marked by number on the frame and trigger guard. The revolver comes in a close fitted hardwood case with a "COLTS/PATENT" eagle powder flask, brass mold without sprue cutter, cap tin, L-shaped combination tool, and key.

Very good with a crisp engraving, mix of gilt 40% finish and aged patina on the grip straps, traces of original blue and casehardened finish, gray patina on the balance, some mild pitting mainly on the cylinder, and mild wear. The slightly age shrunken grip is fine and has attractive natural tones and grain. Mechanically excellent. The relined case and accessories are very good and have mild age and storage related wear, including a crack in the case lid.