Manufactured in 1896. Though never as popular as their Single Action Army cousins, the Model 1878 revolvers, particularly chambered in .44-40, were highly valued on the Frontier for their rapid firepower and their ability to be easily paired with a Winchester Model 1873 rifle or carbine in the same caliber. The barrel is stamped with the one-line Hartford address and "COLT FRONTIER SIX SHOOTER" on the left side. The cylinder is numbered to the gun ("805"). Provenance: The John Fox Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Very good plus as a Colt that has great "been there, done that" character, retaining 40% original blue finish with the balance a mottled brown-gray patina, scratches and well worn grips with absent chip. Mechanically functions fine although cylinder is loose. If you are looking for a Model 1878 that sat in a drawer, you will need to look elsewhere as this piece proudly wears the scarring of authentic frontier use.