An estimated 23,000 of these revolvers were manufactured in the late 1850s and early 1860s, with most being purchased by the U.S. Government, making examples like this one that appear to have been sold on the commercial market relatively scarce. It is quite possible, and maybe even probably, that the majority of these commercially sold Starr revolvers were privately purchased by soldiers for use during the Civil War as an alternative to the prolific Colts and Remingtons. This example has the standard "STARR. ARMS. Co. NEW. YORK." address on left side of frame and "STARR'S PATENT JAN. 15, 1856" on the right. The serial numbers throughout match, and there appear to be no inspector's marks on any components, including the unnumbered one piece walnut grip, that shows significantly finer figure than standard production examples.

Fine, retains 50% of the original blue finish and traces of original case colors on the loading lever and hammer with the balance a mix of grey and brown patina and some patches of speckled light pitting/oxidation. The highly figured grip is also fine with some scattered light dings and scratches, including a series of minor hammering dings on the butt. Mechanically functions in double action.