HAND INSCRIBED US CIVIL WAR ERA COLT MODEL 1849

POCKET SINGLE ACTION PERCUSSION REVOLVER. Cal. 31. S# 171669. Bbl. 5". Model 1849 Pocket single action percussion revolver mfg. by Colt in 1860. Top flat of octagonal bbl. is marked with Colt's Hartford, CT address. Left side of frame is marked "COLTS/ PATENT". Cyl. is engraved with Colt's stagecoach scene. Rear grip strap exhibits a now faint hand inscription, which appears to read "GROSTIUS G. TO OWEN BROWN". Brass trigger guard and grip strap, with 1-piece smooth wood grip. All numbers are matching and include the frame, cyl. base pin, cyl., bbl., bbl. wedge, loading lever, trigger guard, as well as the backstrap. CONDITION: iron components retain scarce traces of their original factory finishes, with the balance retaining a mottled gray patina and varying degrees of pitting overall. Brass trigger guard and grip strap exhibit a pleasing mellow patina, with some areas of darker discoloration overall. Bore exhibits moderate dark pitting and strong rifling throughout. Cyl. does not rotate when action is cocked. Grip exhibits some flaking to its varnish, with scattered marks and minor impressions from handling and storage, but otherwise remains sturdy and serviceable. (01-25015/MLW). ANTIQUE. $500-800.