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Documented Finely Engraved Colt Third Model Dragoon Revolver

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:9,000.00 USD Estimated At:NA
Documented Finely Engraved Colt Third Model Dragoon Revolver
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Estimate: $18000 - 27500
This Colt Third Model Dragoon revolver was manufactured in 1852 and subsequently engraved. This revolver has the distinctive Third Model combination of rounded trigger guard and cylinder with rectangular stops. The revolver is a U.S. contract Dragoon with "U.S." property marks stamped below the "COLTS/PATENT" marking on the left side of the frame and small "H" Ordnance sub-inspection mark stamped on the cylinder. The revolver has a high polished blue finish on the barrel and cylinder, casehardened finish on the loading lever, frame and hammer and silver-plated brass trigger guard and back strap. The top and sides of the barrel lug are period-engraved with well-executed, open scrollwork. The back strap and sides and bottom of the trigger guard are also decorated with well-executed, open, scroll engraving. The one-piece walnut grip is finely checkered and the right side is fitted with an oval, nickel-silver inlay. The inlay is inscribed with monogram using zig-zag engraving. The Colt legend on the top of the barrel lug and the serial numbers on the trigger guard and back strap have been removed to facilitate engraving.. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Ranger and Indian battle scene and "MODEL U.S.M.R/COLT"S PATENT" on either side of the serial number. The full serial number, "12774" is stamped on the cylinder and the bottom of the barrel lug and frame. The partial serial number "2774" is stamped on the loading lever and "774" is stamped on the cylinder arbor pin. All of the visible serial numbers match. The engraving is good quality 19th century work and was executed during the revolver's period of use. This revolver is pictured and described on page 64 of "COLT FIREARMS FROM 1836" by James E. Serven.
BBL: 7 1/2 inch
Stock:
Gauge: 44 percussion
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips: walnut checkered
Serial Number: 12774
Condition: Very good plus. The revolver lug and lower portion of the barrel retain 50% of the period applied custom blue finish. The cylinder has traces of the blue finish. Nearly all of the Ranger and Indian scene is present on the cylinder. Traces of the original case colors are present on the loading lever, frame and hammer. The balance of the casehardened finish has faded to a smooth, silver gray patina. About 20% of the silver-plated finish is present on the brass trigger guard. The balance of the trigger guard and all of the back strap have a mellow, untouched, patina. The engraving on the barrel, trigger guard and back strap is crisp and deep. The serial numbers on the barrel, frame, loading lever and cylinder and the patent/U.S. property markings on the frame are clear. All of the cylinder safety pins are intact and the percussion nipples and rear face of the cylinder show minimal flash pitting. The action is tight and functions perfectly. The grip is in very fine condition with sharp checkering and minimal handling wear. This is a very good example of a Colt Third Model Dragoon revolver with well-executed, period, engraving.