Manufactured in 1901, this is a solid documented example of Colt's Model 1877 "Lightning" double action revolver which was ordered by the American Express Co. The included factory letter confirms the configuration, grips not listed, as well as the American Express Company engraving and shipment to the William Read & Sons to be forwarded to superintendent C.E. Seaton in Chicago on 14 February 1901. Initially founded in New York in 1850 by Henry Wells, William G. Fargo, and John Warren Butterfield, American Express Co. quickly became a leader in freight forwarding, particularly on the East Coast. After a disagreement with Butterfield over expanding their freight network to California, Wells and Fargo would branch off to form another legendary freight company, Wells Fargo & Co. It is believed that the American Express Co. purchased around 1,200 of these Model 1877 revolvers. The top of the barrel is marked with the standard two-line address while the caliber marking is on the left. The three-line patent date marking and circled Rampant Colt are on the left the of the frame. The back strap is marked "Am. Exp. Co. 676", which is followed by a large deep stamping of the serial number. Matching serial numbers are marked on the bottom of the frame, trigger guard, and back strap. It has standard features including a pair of checkered hard rubber grips with Rampant Colts at the tops.

Fine, retains 40% plus of the original blue finish and strong traces of the original case colors in sheltered areas with the balance having thinned to mostly a smooth grey patina, mostly in the form of holster/handling wear. The replacement grips are good with some mild handling wear and scattered light handling marks. Mechanically excellent.