Name/Title
Revolver, PercussionEntry/Object ID
1956.248.0015Description
An old Colt Dragoon cap and ball revolver, missing the handle grips. When found, cylinder had 5 loaded chambers and one empty. The trigger mechanism is missing some parts. 8" barrel, partial brass handle frame and trigger guard. Serial #86057 is engraved on bottom of handle frame. The Dragoon became popular with civilians following the Mexican-American War (1840s). It was also used during the Civil War and kept by soldiers due to its relative power.
06/2022: Bullets and powder removed by local firearms expert in order to render gun entirely safe. The bullets were preserved and have been assigned (b). He also stated that since this type of revolver had no trigger safety, it was common for cowboys to only load the weapon with 5 shots and carry it with the empty chamber aligned to the hammer (so that if the gun was jarred, it wouldn't misfire).
4/9/2024 - Serial number search does not return a Colt Dragoon, based on serial number research and visual comparisons the gun is likely a Model 1860 Army revolver.Collection
Permanent Collection