This is a desirable and colorful variation of the First Model Schofield Single Action revolver. A total of 3,035 of these were manufactured in 1875 with seven inch barrels, walnut grips and blue finish as the configuration. The distinctive features of this revolver are the barrel catch attached to the frame rather than the top strap, the gracefully shaped frame and shorter ejector housing. The U.S. Ordnance Department ordered almost the entire production. Many were issued to the 4th Cavalry and the black troops of the 9th and 10th U.S. Cavalry, the "Buffalo Soldiers" of the Indian Wars. Some notorious outlaws and lawmen of the Old West were known to have carried a Schofield as well. This revolver was one of a number that had the barrel shortened to 5 inches and sold as government surplus to New York dealer Schuyler, Hartley & Graham, who in turn sold them to Wells Fargo. It has the standard two line address/patent dates on the left side of the ejector housing and Schofield's patent information on the right. The right side of the ejector housing below the patent info is marked "W. F. & CO'S. EX." followed by a large "1534". The "1534" is the Wells Fargo & Company inventory number which matched the guns serial number. The matching serial number is marked on the butt, rear cylinder face, (with an "L" below it), and on the inside of the right grip panel. There is also a "P" on the rear cylinder face, "L" and "P" on the bottom of the barrel lug and "US" on the toe. Blade front and notch rear sights, blue finish with casehardened hammer and fitted with smooth walnut grips with an cartouche on each panel and "1876" on the lower left side. The revolver comes with a letter dated 3/8/05 from Dean Williams a dealer of antique and collectable firearms in Spirit Lake, Iowa stating that he has inspected the revolver and finds it to be authentic.

Fine. The revolver retains 25% original thin blue finish mixed with a smooth gray patina. There are a number of minor semi-circle dings on the butt. The hammer retains 40% original case colors with a smooth mottled gray patina on the balance. The grips are very good with some lower edge wear, visible cartouches, crisp date and a few minor dings. The markings are clear. The action is fine. A desirable "must have" for any serious S&W collector or collectors of Wild West Memorabilia.