This is a good example of a London made Colt pocket revolver.  In 1851, Colt displayed his revolvers at the London Exposition which were well received by both military and the public.  Seeing an opportunity, Colt sailed back to England in October 1852 with men and equipment for a new factory.  The factory opened in Jan. 1853 and was located at Pimlico on the bank of the Thames river.  Over the next 3 years, it produced a total of 11,000 Model 1849 Pocket revolvers and 42,000 Model 1851 Revolvers.  There were also some 700 3rd Model Dragoons with parts made in Hartford and assembled in London.  This particular gun is the Model 1849 Pocket revolver.  Its in .31 Caliber with a 4" octagon barrel, and 5 shot cylinder.  The serial number is in the 7400 range and was mfd. in 1855.  Iron trigger guard and backstrap with the thin style English walnut grips. 100% ALL MATCHING numbers including the wedge and arbor pin.  The barrel address is marked "ADDRESS CO. COLT <over> LONDON".  Barrel and cylinder have London proofs while the left side of the frame is marked "COLT'S <over> PATENT".  Screws are the typical high-domed London style.

Overall condition is NRA Antique Very Good with the metal turned to mostly a smooth patina with good edges and markings.  Cylinder shows 85% of its original rolled Stagecoach robbery scene.  Grips are in Fine+ to Excellent condition retaining 95% original varnish that have lightly crazed with age. Grips exhibit perfect wood to metal fit and no chips or cracks.  Very Good screws overall.  Cylinder safety pins are mashed but all 5 are still present.  Very good mechanics and barrel to frame fit is still nice and tight.  Bore has strong rifling present along with the usual array of black powder type pits.

Item# 8703

SOLD