OC - FINE- all original parts; over 30% original finish, sharp lettering, numerals and design on metal and wood; minor marks in wood.

PRF - PROFESSIONALLY REFINISHED OR RESTORED

WW - WOOD IS WORSE FOR THE PERCENT FINISH RATING GIVEN

The factory letter lists this revolver in .38 caliber with a 3 1/2 inch barrel and blue finish when it was part of a 20 gun shipment sent to H & D Folsom Arms Co. in New York City on June 1, 1878. The revolver was subsequently engraved, nickel plated, and then later inscribed "J Wade McDonald" on the back strap. The consignor indicated the inscription referenced Medal of Honor Recipient John Wade McDonald (1843-1910) and stated that he purchased this revolver from McDonald's great-great-granddaughter. He states that the family believed this revolver had been a gift from McDonald's wife. Photographs of McDonald and his wife are included. His Medal of Honor citation from 1900 reads: "The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Private John Wade McDonald, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 6 April 1862, while serving with Company E, 20th Illinois Infantry, in action at Pittsburgh Landing, Tennessee. Private McDonald was severely wounded while endeavoring, at the risk of his life, to carry to a place of safety a wounded and helpless comrade."