This revolver was manufactured in 1853 and exhibits unique early factory scroll engraving. Many Germans began immigrating to the U.S. in the 1850s, and Colt employed several of the German engravers. Gustave Young has become the most famous since he became the factory's primary engraving contractor in the mid-1850s, but there were several other very talented engravers as well. The engraving on this example has floral scroll patterns with beaded backgrounds, "Saml Colt" inscribed on the barrel, "COLTS/PATENT" inscribed in a small banner on the left side of the frame, fan/shell designs on the sides of the barrel lug and top of the back strap, a bestial mask on the hammer, and decorative borders. The cylinder has the standard stagecoach hold-up scene. The left side of the trigger guard has "C" and "G" markings. Their is a "2" marked above the serial number on the barrel and behind the serial number on the cylinder, and "dot" marks are by the other lower serial number markings. All of the visible serial numbers match. It has a dovetail mounted blade front sight rather than the usual post/cone front sight. The revolver comes in a fitted case with a cap tin, iron ball/bullet mold with sprue cutter, small Great Seal of the U.S. themed flask, and a cartridge pack.

Very good with crisp engraving and markings, 95% plus original silver plating on the grip straps, traces of original blue finish, silver-gray patina on the balance, some minor pitting, and generally only minor overall wear. The nicely figured grip is also fine and retains most of its varnish and has some minor dings and scratches and light edge wear. Mechanically fine. The relined case and accessories are very good with mild age and storage related wear.