According to the Colt Factory Records (photocopy included), this revolver was shipped to Ware Brothers of Spokane, Washington as a single piece on April 12, 1898. The letter confirms all features, including the pearl grips, and includes the notation "Factory engraved: On backstrap- Joseph MacDonald", making this revolver one of only around 40 known inscribed or monogrammed Bisley revolvers. Also included is a provenance letter from Kurt House, who attributes this arm to one Joseph MacDonald (b.1866-d.?), resident of Flathead and Lake Counties in Montana, circa 1910-1920, and possible grandson of Angus MacDonald, Spokane resident, family patriarch and Chief Trader with the Hudson Bay Company. Fixed sights, with the one line block letter address on top of the barrel and "(BISLEY MODEL) 45 COLT" along the left side. Two line, two date patent markings on the left side of the frame next to the circled Rampant Colt, with "20" on the loading gate. Matching numbers on the frame, trigger guard and backstrap, the latter showing the inscription "Joseph MacDonald" on the rear. Grips are smooth two piece mother of pearl. Included with the pistol is an extremely rare Colt Factory Bisley Box, one of only around 6 believed to still exist, with lid label showing a Rampant Colt, a Bisley revolver and the legend "COLT'S / BISLEY MODEL / Single Action Revolver / Colt's Patent Fire Arms Manufacturing Co. / HARTFORD, CONN" below the revolver.

Excellent, with 98% of the bright original high polish blue finish, showing some high edge wear, a small amount of gray patina on the backstrap, light scratching on the cylinder and scattered light handling marks overall. Bright original case colors are visible on the hammer and frame, especially vivid in the protected areas. A few tiny chips and scratches are visible on the grips, which are otherwise excellent. The box is fair, showing some repairs and restorations, with a few sections absent and wear and tear appropriate to age. Mechanically excellent. A superb Colt Bisley Model revolver with a rare factory inscription and even more rare factory box.