Approximately 3,400 total Pettengill Army revolvers were manufactured by Rodgers & Spencer & Co., of Willow Dale, New York, with this example included as one of 2,000 purchased by the U.S. Ordnance Department between October 1862-January 1863. The Pettengill double action revolver is known for fouling internal parts after several discharges, which made it nearly impossible to fire. Pettengill Army revolvers were issued in quantity to the 3rd Michigan Volunteer Cavalry and in small numbers to several other Midwestern cavalry regiments. The top strap is marked "PETTENGILLS/PATENT 1856/PATD JULY 22 1856/& JULY 27 1858". The matching serial number "4480" is stamped on the inside of the trigger guard, underside of the right grip panel, and on the butt. "4507" is stamped on the side of the replacement cylinder. "D" sub-inspection mark on the bottom of the frame, "W" sub-inspection mark on the bottom flats of both grip panels, and "WW" on the left of the barrel, frame and cylinder. Boxed script "BH" inspection cartouche stamped on the left grip panel.

Good, with untouched smooth dark gray and brown patina overall, scattered light pitting and mostly visible markings in the metal. The grips are very good, with some scattered light handling marks and nicks, and lightly visible cartouche. Mechanically fine.