This revolver is pictured in the included book "Colt's Double Action Revolver Model of 1878" by Don Wilkerson on page 376 where it is cited as "one of the 5,000 accepted by the Springfield Armory in 1902 and shipped to Manila for the Philippine Constabulary." These modified Model 1878s were manufactured upon request of the U.S. Army during the Philippine-American War and Moro Rebellion. A stronger mainspring was installed to ensure the hammer had enough force to fire the .45 Long Colt government ammunition which was less sensitive than the ammunition on the civilian market. The smaller Model 1878 trigger and trigger guard were replaced with larger versions to help compensate for the resulting stiffer trigger pull. These revolvers also have a lanyard loop on the butt. This example is in well above average condition for a revolver sent to the Philippine jungle. The right side of the frame is marked with the U.S. inspector initials "JTT", "1902", and "US.", and the left side of the frame, left side of the trigger guard and the rear cylinder face have the inspector initials "RAC." A "P" proof mark is found on the rear cylinder face and underside of barrel, which also has a "K" inspection mark. The cylinder and loading gate are numbered to the gun. Provenance: The Don Wilkerson Collection; Property of a Gentleman

Exceptionally fine, retaining 90% plus bright original high polish blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. 85% original nitre blue remains on the hammer and trigger. The grips excellent with minimal handling marks and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.