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LOT 1228
Exceptional Colt First Model Dragoon Percussion Revolver with the Highly Desirable “U.S. DRAGOONS” Marking - Serial no. 7259, 44 cal., 7 1/2 inch part octagon bbl., blue/casehardened finish, walnut grips. Only around 7,000 First Model Dragoons were manufactured in 1848- 1850, and they are important as one of the massive “horse
pistols” manufactured by Colt following the famous Colt Walker revolvers of 1847. Like the other Dragoon models, they were used in the antebellum era on the frontier and also saw considerable use during the Civil War. As such, they are very difficult to find in high condition since many spent years riding in pommel holsters out West and/or on battlefields
of the Civil War. This revolver dates to 1849 and has the rare and desirable “U.S. DRAGOONS” marking on the cylinder rather than the more common U.S.M.R. marking. The barrel has a German silver blade front sight and “{ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW YORK CITY}” reading from the breech towards the muzzle. The cylinder has the Texas Ranger and Indian running battle scene and the correct oval stop slots and single safety pin of the First Model Dragoons. The frame has “COLT’S/ PATENT/U.S.” on the left. There are also small markings, mainly “1” and “S,” on several components. The wedge is blank. “7259” is marked on the loading lever, arbor pin, cylinder, barrel, frame, trigger guard, and back strap. There are “0” markings above or below many of the serial number markings.