Only an estimated 2,700 Colt Second Model Dragoons revolvers were manufactured around 1850 and 1851 compared to 7,000 of the First Model Dragoons and 10,500 Third Model Dragoons. They are thus by far the scarcest of the primary Colt Dragoon revolvers that are the descendants of Colt's massive Model 1847 Walker revolver. They weigh around 4 pounds and thus were designed specifically for mounted use and to be carried in pommel holsters. The Second Model Dragoon revolver features are the combination of square-back trigger guard and rectangular cylinder stops. The U.S. contract Colt Dragoon revolvers were used primarily by the First and Second Dragoon Regiments and the U.S. Regiment of Mounted Riflemen from 1849 until the Civil War, and many saw use by the Union and Confederate cavalry throughout the Civil War making a high condition example like this particularly scarce and desirable. The part octagon barrel is fitted with a nickel silver blade front sight, and the top of the barrel is stamped "-ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-". The left side of the frame is marked "COLT'S/PATENT". The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Texas Ranger and Indian fight scene and "MODEL U.S.M.R./COLT'S PATENT". The matching serial number is stamped on the loading lever, arbor pin, cylinder, bottom of the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard, and back strap. The wedge is un-numbered. Some of the components have small single letter inspection marks. The grip has a "JH" cartouche on the left and a "WAT" cartouche on the right. An "X" is also hand marked on the right.

Exceptionally fine with 85% original blue finish on the barrel, 50% original blue finish on the cylinder which has a crisp scene, 60% plus original case colors on the frame, gray and brown patina on the balance of the steel, attractive natural age patina on the trigger guard and back strap, and some scattered marks and scratches. The grip is very fine and has distinct cartouches, mild scratches and dents, minor edge wear, and smooth oiled finish. Mechanically excellent. This is certainly one of the finest Colt Second Model Dragoons extant and would be very difficult to improve upon!