This beautiful antique Colt was manufactured in 1862 and exhibits the Germanic style scroll and floral engraving of Colt's engravers in the period. These patterns are often attributed to Gustave Young, but Herman Bodenstein was the primary engraver contractor in 1862, and the details of the engraving on this revolver are a closer match to work attributed to Georg H. Sterzing by Herbert Houze. The barrel, frame, hammer, and grip straps all feature flowing scroll engraving with floral accents and punched backgrounds. The hammer also has a wolf head motif, and there are some shell and rayed accents. It is fitted with an attractive one-piece grip. The revolver otherwise has standard markings and featured, including matching visible serial numbers and the factory " ' " marking by the lower serial number locations designating the revolver for special finishing. It comes in a fitted case with brown lining, an Eley Bros. cap tin, a blued dual-cavity bullet mold with "36 P" marking, a cartridge pack for "COL. COLT'S PATENT/NEW MODEL/REVOLVING/POLICE PISTOL," an L-shaped combination tool, several balls, and a eagle and shield pattern pocket flask. Provenance: The Norm Vegely Collection

Fine with crisp engraving and markings, 95% plus of the original age darkened silver plating remaining, 75% plus original case colors, 30% original blue finish, smooth gray and brown patina on the balance, and generally mild wear overall from age and handling. The grip is excellent and has attractive aged tones and grain. Mechanically excellent. The case and accessories are fine and have mild age and storage related wear. Overall, this is a very attractive cased set.