4143 COLT 3RD MODEL DRAGOON DONUT SCROLL CUSTOM

SOLD
Sign In To View Winning Bid
This item SOLD at 2023 May 15 @ 12:33UTC-4 : AST/EDT
Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 2,500.00 USD
Estimated at 5,000.00 - 8,000.00 USD

ENGRAVED REVOLVER. Cal. 44. S# 12406. Bbl. 6 1/2" part round with octagon shank. 6 Shot round cylinder with Texas Ranger scene roll engraving. Frame, bbl., grip straps and loading lever have "Donut Scroll" engraving with wolf’s head engraving on the hammer. "Colt Engraving" by R. L. Wilson on page 36 states the following "comparison with some Dragoon specimens in the range from number 12365 to 12410 reveals differences in scroll placements, but an identical scroll style". On page 22 he says "Number three of the early styles of Colt Hartford engraving is known as the "donut scroll". This is a dramatic departure from the vine style, and contrasts strongly with the "exhibition grade" and the new style which would be introduced by Gustav Young in 1852. No records identify the craftsman responsible for introducing the donut scroll, but judging from the study of revolvers bearing the style, its life was brief, C. 1851-52". On page 36 and 37 consecutive serial numbered revolver 12405 is pictured with its unmistakably similar engraving. This beautiful revolver is custom engraved in factory style. Blue and case colored finish with silver finished grip straps. One piece grips of burl Walnut. Bbl., frame, grip straps, cylinder, loading lever and wedge have matching numbers. On the bbl., frame and grip straps a period is located above or below the serial number. Right side of trigger guard at rear is stamped “R”. Back of cylinder stamped “H”. 1852 Mfg. CONDITION: near excellent as refinished. Bbl. has over 85% blue showing edge wear, spots of fading and small handling marks. Cylinder has unusually strong scene, the blue shows wear and fading. Frame and loading lever have 90% case colors showing fading on high points. Grip straps retain nearly all silver finish exhibiting an attractive partial mild tarnish grips show scattered scratches and marks and are slightly undersized at frame. The bore retains sound gain twist rifling showing scattered dark spots. (01-21728/DS). ANTIQUE. $5,000-8,000.