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LOT 3210
Factory Engraved Colt Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver with Desirable Relief Carved Dragoon Portrait Grip - Serial no. 107794, 31 cal., 5 inch octagon bbl., blue/ casehardened/silver finish, antique ivory grips. This revolver was manufactured in 1855 when Master Engraver Gustave Young was Colt’s primary engraving contractor, and the engraving is typical of the revolvers attributed to Young himself. Note the eagle head above the wedge, the rayed elements on the barrel lug and sides of the back strap, and the overall style of the masterfully cut scroll engraving. The barrel has a cone front sight and the inscribed “Saml Colt” marking rather than the usual address, and the frame has “COLTS/PATENT” engraved in an open panel rather than the standard stamped marking. The hammer has the classic wolf’s head motif. The factory dot marking used to designate revolvers for special finishing is marked by the main serial numbers on the bottom, and all of the serial numbers match. The barrel lug has a “6” on the left. The left side of the trigger guard has “S” and “X” markings. The grip has a detailed raised relief bust portrait of a dragoon on the left side. While there are other similar grips known on other engraved Colts from the 1850s, they tend to each be fairly unique, and all are rare.
CONDITION: Fine.
The engraving and
markings remain crisp.
80% original silver plating remains on the grip frame and exhibits an
attractive aged patina. 75% plus of the bright original high polish blue finish
remains on the barrel. The loading lever has smooth gray patina on the forward
section of the arm and the plunger section and a dark blue on the flats at the
hinge. The cylinder has patches of original blue finish, smooth gray patina on the balance, and a distinct stagecoach hold-up scene. The frame and hammer have patterns of original case colors and otherwise smooth gray patina. The grip is very fine and has slight shrinkage from age, distinct raised relief carving, an age crack on the right, and attractive natural tones. Mechanically
excellent. Overall, this
is a stunning factory
engraved Colt Model
1849 Pocket complete
with a raised relief
carved grip.
Estimate: 7,500 - 12,000
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