This is an example of a Butterfield percussion revolver that was manufactured by Jesse Butterfield of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1862. The Butterfield Revolvers were manufactured in anticipation of an order for 2,280 on a government contract. The contract was never awarded and production was limited to only about 640 revolvers. The revolver had a silver plated brass frame with blue five-shot cylinder, octagonal barrel, casehardened attached loading lever and two-piece flared walnut grips. The revolver is equipped with a special disc priming device loaded by loosening a thumb-screw in front of the trigger guard. The brass top strap is marked "BUTTERFIELD'S/PATENT DEC.11 1855/PHILADA". The matching serial number is located on the right side of the barrel on the butt and on the bottom of each grip panel.

Fair as refinished. The metal surfaces have an artificial brown patina with some minor pitting on the cylinder and hammer. The brass has a dark aged patina. The refinished grips are ill-fitting at the tops and remain good with a repair on the left toe, a small chip on the right toe, a repair on the upper left side and overall some scattered minor dents and dings. The top strap marking is clear. The action functions, but needs minor work.