June 25-28, 2018 Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/25/2018
Finished in the Colt light Martial blue and smokey Colt case colors. The Second Model Dragoon had the shortest production time and smallest number produced of the three standard Dragoon Series, with a mere 2,700 manufactured from 1850 to 1851. Given their record for hard usage, one does not expect to find a really nice example with any appreciable amount of original finish. This outstanding example is contrary to all others in that it has survived in exemplar, all original condition. The barrel retains over 90% original Colt blue, most still bright. The roll engraved cylinder scene is flawless and still retains at least 60-80% original blue, blending a homogenous, soft patina. The frame retains over 80 to 90% of the soft martial case colors. There are generous remains of color on the loading lever with the balance patterned out to a soft grey. The one piece walnut grips are in excellent to near mint condition with strong inspector cartouche on both sides. Left panel bears the initials "JH" for Joseph Hannis who was a civil employee of the Ordnance Department who spent more than 25 years as an inspector of contractor arms, beginning in 1836 at Springfield Armory. Right panel bears the initials "WAT" for William A. Thorton, Brevette Brigadier General, U.S. Army, who was the chief inspector of contract arms for a longer period of time than any other individual. Thorton's first period of Ordnance duty was at Watervliet Arsenal from March 27th, 1833 to October 15th, 1836. Standard features on this revolver include octagon to round barrel, non-fluted cylinder, brass square back trigger guard, brass backstrap, one piece walnut grips, six shot and single action. The military inspector marks can be found as follows: "M" on left side of frame, "H" on top barrel flat, "M" on loading lever, "H" on cylinder, "K" on trigger guard, "M" on hammer, "H" on left trigger guard. "COLTS PATENT US" is stamped on left side of frame. Barrel has New York City address. Matching serial number can be found on frame, barrel, loading lever, trigger guard, backstrap and cylinder. All edges are razor sharp, as are legends. All screw heads are relatively sharp retaining generous amounts of Nitre blue finish. The wedge is the only mismatched part on entire gun. All of the nipples are original and all safety pins are intact. There is no rust, corrosion or finish abrasions of any kind. No signs of excessive cleaning and brass is untouched. Indexes and locks up like the day it was manufactured. Bore is sharp and bright. Prior Greg Lampe collection This 2nd Model Martial Dragoon has been regarded as one of the finest to ever be offered for sale. From the Jim Linton Collection.
Caliber/Bore
.44 Percussion