Only an estimated 2,700 Second Model Dragoons revolvers were manufactured around 1850 and 1851. They are the rarest of the 3 Dragoon Models.  This very rare Massachusetts Militia “MS” marked 2nd Model Dragoon was only 1 of 100 (hundred) received by the Massachusetts Militia in 1852. These 100 revolvers remained at the Cambridge Arsenal from 1852 till 1860 - 1861. Exceptions were from 1854 till 1858, 4 revolvers were issued to the Sergeant- at-Arms at the State House.  In 1859, 2 revolvers were presented by Governor Andrew to Surgeons Smith & Talley. From 1859 -1860, 12 revolvers were on loan to the State Prison. It’s likely the 12 prison revolvers were returned to the Militia. The SECOND BATTERY MASSACHUSETTS LIGHT ARTILLERY mustered into the United States Service  on July 31st 1861 and departed Boston August 8th, 1861.  The 2 Surgeons mustered in for 3 months of service. They left before 2nd Battery departed Boston. It then seems likely the SECOND BATTERY MASSACHUSETTS LIGHT ARTILLERY left Boston with 96 of the 100 Second Model Dragoons. Of these 100 revolvers it is guesstimated only approximately 20 have survived!   The above italicized information was taken from multiple pages from Douglas L. Hays Jr’s book Massachusetts Marked Colt Second Model Dragoon Revolvers, Their Early History and U.S. Civil War Issue to summarize the story of this famous “MS” 2nd Model Dragoon revolver. This is the life of these revolvers. Refer to timeline in photo of page 16 . Note: This site allows for only 10 photos total.

Serial number 10557 is matching throughout.  The “MS” stamp resides on the trigger guard below the serial number.  -ADDRESS SAML COLT NEW-YORK CITY-" is stamped on the octagon part top of the barrel which has a light brown patina. The edges of the octagon flats are sharp with some dings.  "Colt’s Patent” & “U.S. is stamped on the left side of the frame. with the “B” stamp, found on four parts of the gun. The B is on any example of the “MS” revolvers. The grips are in good condition. There are 2 small cracks at the top of grips at the strap.  The grips have the "JCB" cartouche on the left side of the grip (Joseph C. Bragg) with an "X" stamped over it, "W.A.T." cartouche is stamped on the right side (William Anderson Thornton). The cylinder scene is crisp. About 90-95% scene remaining. Action functions like new. Great example of this famous 100 total government issued 2nd Model Dragoons to the Massachusetts Militia. Customer pays 50.00  for insurance & shipping. Honoring 3 day inspection. Also, I can provide more feedback from other sites if necessary- 100+ of 100+ positive! Never a negative.  Thank you.