October 22-23, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/22/2019
Outstanding revolver with rare "U.S Dragoons" marked .44 caliber cylinder. Standard configuration with 7 - 1/2 inch part round, part octagon barrel, oval cylinder stop slots, square back brass trigger guard. One piece walnut grips with clear "SK" for Samuel Keeler cartouche on left side and "WAT" for William A. Thornton cartouche on right side. Small U.S. on left side of frame under Colts Patent. Correct sub-inspector stamps in all required locations. PROVENANCE: Max Guenthert collection, Kirby Howlett collection, featured in the October 2001 edition of The Gun Report and is further identified as one of the very few 1st Model Dragoons in existence with a complete set of Martial inspectors markings. CONDITION: These first model dragoons were virtually 100% issued and rarely survive with any condition. Serial number 6367 is very fine in every respect. Matching serial numbers on loading lever, barrel, frame, cylinder, trigger guard,and backstrap, wedge is unnumbered. The Texas Ranger Indian fight cylinder scene is nearly all visible, along with the U.S. Dragoon marking. Cylinder shows overall light use. Action is tight and crisp. Bore is excellent. Barrel retains approximately 15-20% original blue. Balance of revolver is a pleasing gun metal gray patina. Grips are outstanding with minor nicks and scratches and clearly visible cartouches. All screws are original (except 3 on backstrap) and unmolested. A remarkable U.S. Martial Dragoon that would be hard to improve on. -MKS-