February 17-19, 2020 Field & Range Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/17/2020
This rare and unique model Colt revolver has been referred to by several titles and subject of much conjecture of origin and production numbers. Sometimes misidentified as a First Model Dragoon. Most commonly referred to by collectors as the "Fluck" dragoon after the early Colt collector John J. Fluck discovered through his research that it was indeed a distinct model. Sometimes, referred to as a "Walker Replacement Dragoon" due to the theory the U.S. Government specifically ordered these to replace Walker revolvers and they were made up of left over Colt Walker parts. Opined estimates of production numbers have ranged from only 300 to several thousand built. In any event they are indeed a distinct and rare model that have features of both the Colt Walker and the First Model Colt Dragoon. This example, serial number 2506 manufactured in 1848 has the distinctive long Walker type backstrap and grip angle. Octagon to round 7-1/2 inch barrel marked "ADDRESS SAM'L COLT NEW-YORK CITY", reading from the breech forward. The barrel, frame, trigger guard, backstrap,cylinder and cylinder arbor all have matching serial number 2506, with the arbor marked 506. The wedge is marked 460, Cylinder 2641, and the loading lever 254. All numbers are the small Walker size font. Center of frame left side is marked 3-lines "COLT'S/PATENT/U.S." Sub-inspection letter "P" visible on left side barrel lug and on the cylinder near the serial number. Cylinder has W.L. Ormsby's roll die Texas Ranger and Indian fight scene and is also marked "MODEL U.S.M.R." and "COLT'S PATENT". Blue with case hardened frame, loading lever, and hammer. Brass trigger guard and backstrap. One-piece oil finished walnut grips. Accompanying the revolver is a period correct military style flap holster, with letters "T.P.B." carved on the inside of flap, belt with brass "U.S." Indian Wars period buckle, an "R.White" inspected percussion cap pouch with a period French made brass compass, and cartridge pouch. CONDITION: Revolver is very good overall with only small traces of original finishes present in protected areas. Brass trigger guard and backstrap a medium color mustard patina showing moderate wear. Walnut grips showing heavy wear at the butt with the toe area rounded back on both sides, balance of grips show moderate wear with scattered dents and scratches, fit well to the backstrap. No visible cartouches or sub-inspector stamps on grips. Barrel lug has multiple dents around wedge on right side. Bore is decent showing good straight rifling. Cylinder has faint, yet legible roll die scene and markings, with distinctive pressure ridge on entire circumference. Good original screws, a few with molested slots. Trigger is formed (or possibly bent) in a non-typical radius. Action operates well, tight and crisp. Leather items are sound and pliable with moderate grazing. Overall a very respectable and honest example of a scarce early model Colt revolver and holster rig. -MKS-