Approximately 700 of these distinctive Dragoon revolvers were reportedly manufactured c. 1853-1857 mostly using Hartford made parts. it is estimated that about 150 were engraved. 73 of the engraved Dragoons, nearly half, were shipped to Joseph C. Grubb & Company in Philadelphia in 1861 indicating these massive Dragoon revolvers were not popular in the U.K., but that there was demand in the U.S. Dragoons are known to have been used by both sides during the Civil War, particularly by cavalrymen. This very attractive Hartford-English Dragoon revolver is featured in a centerfold on pages 232-233 of "The Colt Engraving Book Vol. 1" by R.L. Wilson. It is the only single revolver two-page spread in the book. The caption notes the "rare reinforcing bolster and screw in select walnut grips" and also indicates the revolver was from Raymond Kendall's collection. These reinforced grips are only found on a handful of the Hartford-English Dragoons and demonstrate that there were likely concerns about the grips handling the stress of the large and powerful revolvers. In addition to the rare grips which have beautiful figure, this revolver features stunning London factory floral, scroll, shell, and border engraving. The barrel has the one-line New York address, and the frame has the "COLT'S PATENT" marking inscribed in an engraved banner. The barrel and cylinder have London proofmarks. Matching serial numbers are visible on the loading lever, barrel, frame, trigger guard, back strap, and cylinder. It come in an original English oak case with round lid escutcheon, blue velvet lining, a turned bone container, James Dixon & Sons oiler, L-shaped combination screwdriver and nipple wrench, "COLTS/PATENT" ball and bullet mold, Joyce cap tin, and a G. & J.W. Hawksley back shaped powder flask. Provenance: The Raymond Kendall Collection; The Dr. John Pickup Collection; The Glenn and Maria Klein Collection

Fine overall with crisp engraving and markings, 25% original blue, 95% of the original silver plating which displays an attractive aged patina, mostly smooth gray patina on the balance, some light pitting, and generally minor age and storage related wear overall. The grip is also fine and has stunning figure, minor scratches and dings, light edge wear, and 95% of the original varnish. Mechanically fine. The case and accessories are fine with mild age and storage related wear including some dings and scratches, heat colors on the sprue cutter on the mold, and minor contact wear on the case lining.