The copy of the factory letter lists this early Model 1878 revolver in a shipment of 56 guns of this type in ".45 Eley Short" with blue finish and a 5 1/2 inch barrel when shipped to Colt's London Agency at 14 Pall Mall on September 26, 1878. It has been theorized that the "Short" cartridge designation was a recording error/misinterpretation based on Colt's agent Von Oppen ordering "short" revolvers. This revolver and the others we have sold that are lettered as ".45 Eley Short" have "short" 5 1/2 inch barrels rather than "long" 7 1/2 inch barrels. Note: the caliber marking on the left side of the trigger guard is "45 CAL/B" which suggest .450 Boxer ammunition which was the standard English service cartridge until 1880. It also has standard blade and groove/notch sights, "COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG. Co HARTFORD CT. U.S.A. DEPOT 14 PALL MALL LONDON." on top of the barrel, small London proofs on the barrel and cylinder, the matching early serial number "564" on the cylinder as well as the loading gate and butt, checkered walnut grips hand numbered to the gun, and a lanyard loop on the butt. The included oak case matches others with London Agency shipped Colt revolvers and has a London trade label inside, an L-shaped combination tool and cartridge block.

Very fine with 80% plus bright original high polish blue finish remaining, finish loss mainly due to flaking on the cylinder which has light brown patina, bright hammer sides, and crisp markings. The grips are also very fine with most of the original varnish, crisp checkering, scattered minor dings and scrapes, and a chip on the left lower panel, near the heel. Mechanically excellent. The case is also very fine and has mild storage wear including some slight chips at the corners. Overall, this is a very attractive, early, London shipped Colt Model 1878.