The accompanying factory letter lists this highly sought after Model 1877 Thunderer with a 4 1/2 inch barrel in .41 caliber, nickel plating, factory engraving and grips not listed when shipped to Charles Hummel & Son of San Antonio, Texas, on September 18, 1890. Hummel & Son was once the largest Colt dealer west of the Mississippi River. This shipment was for two guns. The sides of the barrel and frame are richly engraved with Helfricht style floral scrollwork on a punch dot background. Scrolls and zig-zag line motifs alternate on the chambers of the cylinder while the rear of the cylinder has a zig-zag line and dot pattern band. Fan patterns adorn the recoil shields and loading gate. Zig-zag line and dot patterns are featured on the barrel ahead of the two-line Hartford address, top strap, back strap and trigger guard. The ejector rod housing features a wavy line and dot motif on top and star burst pattern on the side. The extensive use of zig-zag lines and dots makes for an unusual factory pattern on a revolver model that is rarely found factory engraved. The left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates marking amongst the engraving. The attractive period pearl grips have an outstanding highly detailed relief carved steer head on the right panel. The assembly number "79" is marked on the loading gate. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. According to Colt historian R.L. Wilson, approximately 475 Model 1877 Thunderers were factory engraved per the factory records. This Colt model 1877 Thunderer revolver and lot 1177 a Colt model 1877 Lightning are both factory engraved Texas shipped with pearl grips, sent one week apart, and less than 150 serial numbers apart. Provenance: The John Fox Collection

Very fine, retaining 80% original nickel plating with the balance a smooth gray patina. The factory engraving is crisp. The grips are also very fine with minimal handling evidence, crisp carving and fiery colors. The cylinder stop needs work as the cylinder does not rotate properly when the action is cycled. A great piece of late 19th century firearms art that will be a welcome addition to any Colt collection.