This revolver is one of 3,000 First Model Schofields purchased by the U.S. Government. They were used by the U.S. Army for only a few years before being sold as surplus on the civilian market and used in the West by Wells Fargo express agents and many others. The U.S. military markings include "L" and "P" stamped on the barrel and rear cylinder face, and "L" on the frame. Lacks a visible "US" marking on the butt which has a faint serial number only. The revolver is in the standard Wells Fargo configuration with the barrel shortened to 5 inches as was common with 19th century revolvers purchased by various express companies, nickel finish, and the Wells Fargo marking on the right side of the barrel ("W.F.&CO.EX. 1879"). "GWF" initials are carved on each grip panel. Matching serial numbers appear on the butt, right grip panel, and cylinder. Includes a Wells Fargo Services hat badge

Good, as a true survivor of the Indian Wars that saw military and civilian use out west with all the character of having spent a lifetime in a challenging environment. The period personalized grips show similar "working gun" character with the butt showing marks of being used as a hammer during its time of service out west. Action functions although the cylinder does not lock properly.