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Posted: 7/3/2008 10:06:41 AM EDT
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My uncle has a Colt 1850 that he got from his great uncle that brought it over from Scotland in the late 1800's. Does anyone know where I can get some information on this pistol? I'm going to put it in a shadow box, with all the information I can find on it for him. thanks |
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Looks like a Dragoon. In that condition, big $$$ possible. BTW be very cautious of dealers trying to tell you it is a reproduction. Especially if you know it isn't. If original only trust a big name auction house who's reputation is more important to them than mere $$$. You should do some research, this pistol may be worth some serious $$, yours appears to have original engraving and in much better condition than other basic examples being sold for around $10k. |
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Looks like a common Model 1849 to me. SN, caliber, and number of rounds held would help with the ID. Slagle has a Model 1849 in better condition and with a shorter barrel for sale here: www.cwslagleantiques.com/view_detail.cfm?catid=53&id=2874 |
5" barrel 5 rounds sn# 14090_ caliber .31 thanks |
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An 1849 with serial number 14090 was made in 1850. The year started at 12000, and ended at 15999. The Model 1849 Pocket Dragoon was made from 1850 to 1873. It was made in .31 caliber, with 3" 4" 5" and 6" barrels. The grip frame was brass with a silver plating, or steel with silver plating or blued. It had a engraving of the famed stage coach hold up on the cylinder. Yours is a First Type version with the brass trigger guard made during the first year of production. Value depends on actual condition. One in 80% condition would be worth "around" $2500 or more. This one needs to be seen by a real expert to evaluate it. |
All of that is consistent with it being a Model 1849. Per my Flayderman’s Guide to Antique American Firearms, Model 1849’s had SN ranges from about 12000 to about 340000. Further, SN ranges from about 14400 to about 187000 had a New York City marking like yours. Some info is here: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colt_Pocket_Percussion_Revolvers |
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Contact Colt about having their archive services research the gun. It can be expensive, but if it's an original old Colt, It would be worth it. Colt Archive Services ZM |
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