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 model of revolver that was sent to the Philippine jungle. The accompanying factory letter states the revolver was sold to the U.S. government and shipped o Commanding Officer, Springfield Armory, Springfield, Massachusetts, on December 16, 1902 with a 6 inch barrel in .45 caliber, blue finish, and type of stocks not listed. This was a 300 gun shipment. 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 Charles Marx Collection

Excellent, retaining 90% plus bright original high polish blue finish with some high edge wear and back strap thinning to a brown. The grips are fine with a repair on the right panel, some handling marks, and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. A solid Representative example of a U.S. Colt Model 1878/1902 "Alaskan/Philippine" Revolver.