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COLT 3RD MODEL DRAGOON DONUT SCROLL CUSTOM

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:2,500.00 USD Estimated At:5,000.00 - 8,000.00 USD
COLT 3RD MODEL DRAGOON DONUT SCROLL CUSTOM

ENGRAVED REVOLVER. Cal. 44. S# 12389. Bbl. 6 1/2" round with octagon shank. Six shot round cylinder has Texas Ranger scene roll engraving. Frame, bbl., grip straps and loading lever have "Donut Scroll" engraving with wolf’s head engraving on hammer. "Colt Engraving" by R. L. Wilson states on page 36 that "comparison with some Dragoon specimens in the range from number 12365 to 12410 reveals differences in scroll placements, but are an identical scroll style". On page 22 he says "number three of the early styles of Colt Hartford engraving is known as the 'donut scroll'. This is a dramatic departure from the vine style, and contrasts strongly with the 'exhibition grade' and the new style which would be introduced by Gustav Young in 1852. This beautiful custom engraved revolver has blue and case colored finish with silver finished grip straps. One piece grips of burl walnut. Bbl., frame, grip straps, cylinder, loading lever and wedge have matching numbers. A period is found above or below the numbers on the bbl., frame and grip straps. Right side of frame has engraved patent marking. S# indicates 1852 mfg. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: 3" copper medallion marked "INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION PHILADELPHIA, MDCCCLXXVI" around the edge. Center is marked "AWARDED BY UNITED STATES CENTENNIAL COMMISSION". Opposite side depicts a figure in Greek clothing, with a border of stars. CONDITION: very fine as refinished. Barrel retains over 80% blue showing edge wear with numerous small dents and marks. Cylinder has very strong cylinder scene with lightly worn blue showing carry and edge wear. Frame and loading lever retain 80% lightly worn case coloring showing edge wear. Grip straps retain over 90% silver showing wear spots at heel and have a mild dark tarnish. Grip shows wear spots with scattered scratches and marks. Bore retains sound gain twist rifling showing dark spots. (01-21726/DS). ANTIQUE. $5,000-8,000.