Manufactured in 1890, this is a fine example of Colt's "express" large frame lightning rifle. These "Express Model" rifles were the rarest of the series, and only 6,496 were manufactured in 1887-1894 compared to nearly 90,000 each of the Small and Medium frame versions. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration as well as shipment to Hibbard, Spencer, Bartlett & Co. in Chicago on 27 January 1891. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line Colt address and patent dates, while the caliber marking is offset on the upper left flat. The left side of the receiver is stamped with the Rampant Colt trademark and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is fitted with a Lyman beaded blade front sight and an elevation adjustable notch rear sight. It is mounted with a multi-point checkered slide handle and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Fine, retains 40% of the original blue finish with the balance having thinned to a smooth grey-brown patina and a few scattered patches of very light surface pitting. The wood is very good with a couple hairline cracks, a chip on the top right, and scattered minor handling marks throughout. Mechanically excellent.