Factory engraved Colt Model 1877 Lightning revolvers are a rarity. According to Colt historian R.L. Wilson, "factory records indicate approximately 250 Lightnings in .38 caliber [were engraved]" and "their usual finish was nickel plating." The included factory letter confirms the 3 1/2 inch barrel in .38 caliber, nickel finish, engraving, and grip material and states the revolver was shipped on August 18, 1879, to famed B. Kittredge & Co. of Cincinnati, Ohio. This was a six gun shipment. The engraving consists of floral scroll work on a stippled background along with flourishes of various motifs such as entwining lines and cross hatching. The barrel has the two-line Hartford address on top and the highly desirable acid etched "COLT DA 38" panel on the left side. The left side of the frame has the patent date marking (very faint). "38 CAL" is stamped on the left side of the trigger guard.