The included factory letter states the revolver was shipped on April 4, 1878 to Colt's Patent Fire-Arms Mfg. Company, London Agency, London England, with blue finish, 45 Eley, barrel length not listed, "Special Notation" "Short Barrel", type of stocks not listed. The top of the barrel has the Pall Mall London address, the left side of the frame has the three-line patent dates marking, and the left side of the trigger guard is marked "45 CAL/B." The London retailer marking is engraved on the back strap: "COGSWELL & HARRISON/142. NEW BOND ST. LONDON." British proofs are present on the barrel and cylinder. The ejector rod has a bulls eye head. Matching serial numbers are on the frame, trigger guard, back strap, cylinder and barrel.

Very good plus. The grip straps retain 70% original blue finish and generous traces of original case colors and blue finish remain in the protected areas of the remaining surfaces, otherwise the revolver has a mottled gray patina. The grip is fine with minor handling marks, some high edge wear and most of the original varnish remaining. Mechanically excellent.