Colt 1848 3rd Model Dragoon Percussion Revolver – Serial No. 11858 (Mfg. 1851)

A genuine survivor of the American frontier era, this Colt 1848 3rd Model Dragoon represents one of Samuel Colt’s most iconic designs and a pivotal chapter in U.S. firearms history. Manufactured in 1851, this revolver is a true collector’s piece, steeped in legend and scarce to find in such honest condition today.

Historical Background

The Colt Dragoon revolvers were developed as a direct improvement on the oversized 1847 Colt Walker. The Walker, while powerful, was heavy, unwieldy, and plagued with cylinder failures. In response, Samuel Colt worked with the U.S. Mounted Rifles (nicknamed “Dragoons”) to refine the design. The result was the Colt 1848 Dragoon, produced between 1848–1860 in three main variations.

The Dragoon was lighter and more practical than the Walker, yet retained formidable stopping power with its .44 calibre chambering. It quickly became a favourite sidearm for the Texas Rangers, frontiersmen, and military officers. It saw use across the American frontier during the turbulent mid-19th century, from the Indian Wars to the early years leading into the Civil War.

The 3rd Model Dragoon, produced from 1851–1860, is the final and most refined version. It featured a square-back trigger guard, rectangular cylinder notches, and other small refinements that made it more reliable in service. With around 10,500 produced, the 3rd Model is an essential piece for serious Colt and Civil War-era collectors.

Revolver Details

• Calibre: .44 percussion

• Action: 6-shot, single action

• Barrel: 7 ½" (190mm)

• Finish & Condition:

  • Honest grey patina to frame, barrel & cylinder with light patches of staining and fine pinprick pitting.

  • Brass trigger frame & straps showing a mellow age patina, with approx. 60% of original silver plating intact.

  • Cylinder bears faint but still visible Texas Ranger & Indian fight scene, along with “PATENT” markings.

  • Frame marked “COLTS PATENT U.S.”; barrel top marked { ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY }.

  • Inspector’s “T” mark on trigger guard frame.

• Serial Numbers: Matching #11858 stamped on cylinder, barrel, trigger guard frame, butt & frame – correctly consistent.

• Date of Manufacture: 1851.

• Mechanical Condition:

  • Hammer locks up crisply at half and full cock.

• Other Features:

  • German silver front sight blade.

  • Wooden grips in very good condition overall, with light handling marks and retaining approx. 20% of the original varnish.

Collector’s Significance

This revolver is more than just a firearm – it is a direct link to the American frontier and the Texas Ranger legacy. The Colt Dragoon revolvers were carried by men who shaped the early history of the United States westward expansion.

Because the Dragoon bridged the gap between the massive Colt Walker and the more common Colt Army 1860, it occupies a unique and highly collectible niche in Colt history. Surviving examples with matching serials, visible cylinder scenes, and crisp frame markings are becoming increasingly scarce, especially in Australia.

Whether displayed as a centrepiece in a collection or preserved as an investment, this 3rd Model Dragoon will appeal to serious collectors of Colt percussion revolvers, 19th-century military arms, and U.S. frontier history.

Price & Sale Details

Price: $8500

Shipping available to your closest dealer (prices start from $65 per firearm).
No shipping to WA.
Serial No.: 11858
Book Ref.: A9-4065