Colt Model 1848 Baby Dragoon Percussion Revolver

This fine Colt Model 1848 Baby Dragoon was manufactured in 1850. Less than 15,000 of this model were produced c. 1847-1850 before production transitioned to the Colt Model 1849 Pocket. These Baby Dragoons were the smaller counterparts of the massive Dragoon revolvers in .44 caliber. They were popular with '49ers and others traveling to the West since they offered multi-shot protection in a small package. The distinctive 4 inch octagon blued barrel is designed without a loading lever and features a small German silver cone front sight and the two-line "-ADDRESS SAML COLT/NEW-YORK CITY-" address on top. The left side of the casehardened frame has the small "COLTS/PATENT" marking. The blued cylinder is marked "COLTS PATENT/No 12656" with the Texas Rangers and Comanche Indian fight scene and rectangular cylinder stops. The silver plated brass grip frame has a squareback trigger guard marked with a "K" below the serial number and "T" on the right shoulder. All matching full and partial serial numbers visible on the barrel, frame, trigger guard, wedge, cylinder pin, cylinder, and butt. The revolver comes in a custom hardwood case with felt lined interior containing a reproduction small eagle pattern pocket flask, packet of five .31 caliber cartridges, Eley's cap tin, lead balls and bullets, blue finished iron ball/bullet mold, and a brass loading tool.

Condition: Fine, retains 60% original blue finish on the barrel with smooth brown and gray patina on the balance, scattered dings visible on the right around the wedge, smooth gray patina on the frame and cylinder with crisp scene, and 85% original silver plating on the grip frame. Grip is very fine with some scattered light scratches, and minor finish wear spots along the otherwise defined bottom edges. Mechanically fine. Case is very good as relined to fit with some light wear visible on the interior.