This is a good solid example for a Colt Dragoon Revolver.  Standard 3rd Model in .44 Caliber with 6 shot cylinder, 7 1/2" barrel, and round trigger guard.  All matching numbers including the iron wedge. The serial number is in the 11,000 range which dates its manufacture to 1851, the first year of manufacture for the 3rd Model.  The left side of the frame is marked "COLT'S PATENT" <over> "U.S." denoting purchase by the US Government.  Several of the parts also bear initials of US Sub-inspectors.  Top of barrel lug is marked, "ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY"

Overall condition is NRA Antique Good+ to VG- with good clean lines, sharp edges, good markings, and nice screws.  The metal is has aged to a light grey brown patina that is fairly smooth but mixed with some light areas of scatterered corrosion and pitting like it lived near the ocean in salty air.  For a Dragoon, it shows remarkably little usage.  Frame shows traces of silvered out case colors in protected areas.  The cylinder has some portions original scene...its seems less worn as it is obscured by light peppery corrosion.  In spite of this, it has nice edges, uncorroded nipples, and has somehow survived with all six safety pins intact...a little distressed but all are still standing.  The grips are in VG+ shape as well with no chips, cracks, or repairs.  Nice wood to metal fit that's just a hair undersized from natural shrinkage over the past 150+ years.  Excellent mechanics with the cylinder still indexing and locking up properly.  Nice smooth chambers and a near excellent bore with strong rifling that's mostly bright that's a tad frosty towards the muzzle.  A good example of a nice Colt Dragoon. 

Item# 8701

SOLD