The accompanying Colt factory letter(photocopy) states that this revolver was one of eight factory engraved revolvers shipped to J.P. Moores & Sons on July 4, 1876. These eight revolvers are the only Model 1871-72 Open Top revolvers that were factory engraved. The letter lists the finish as "nickel", grips as "Not Listed" and verifies the factory engraving. The barrel, frame, trigger guard and back strap are decorated with factory scroll engraving on a punch-dot background. The barrel address is in a scallop bordered panel and the patent dates are surrounded by scroll engraving. The engraving on the bottom of the barrel lug and trigger guard incorporate the serial number. Colt Model 1871-72 Open Top revolver serial number 1970 was in the same lot of eight revolvers shipped to J.P. Moores on July 4, 1876 and is illustrated on page 158 of "The Book of Colt Engraving" by R.L. Wilson. Wilson describes the engraving on serial number 1970 as, "a flowery scroll design which may have been done by one of the younger craftsmen. But nevertheless one of the rarest deigns in the study of Colt firearms engraving". The engraving on this revolver is nearly identical to that on serial number 1970 and appears to have been executed by the same craftsman. The top of the barrel is marked with the one-line address "-ADDRESS COL. SAML COLT NEW-YORK U.S. AMERICA-" and "-PAT. JULY.25. 1871.-/-PAT. JULY 2.1872-" is roll-stamped on the left side of the frame. The cylinder is roll-engraved with the Texas Navy battle scene and "COLTS PATENT NO. 992". The inside of the loading gate is stamped with the assembly number "964". The full serial number "1992" is located on the bottom of the barrel lug, frame, trigger guard and back strap. The cylinder is stamped with the partial serial number "992". All nickel finish and fitted with a smooth one-piece ivory grip. Research by Colt experts indicates that the eight factory engraved, nickel plated Colt Model 1871-1872 Open Top revolvers shipped to J.P. Moores on July 4, 1876, were intended for display at the Independence Day celebration and Centennial display in New York City. The revolvers were serial numbers: 1932, 1970, 1982, 1983, 1992, 1993, 2003 and 2004. This revolver and serial number 1970 were both located on the Texas/Mexican border. Serial number 2003 is also offered in this auction.

Very fine. The revolver has been professionally restored and presents an outstanding appearance. There is scattered flash pitting on the rear portions of the barrel lug and the front edges of the cylinder. The left side of the barrel has some scattered minor pitting. The grip is very good overall and has shrunk slightly showing some deterioration along the front strap, yellowing with some brown areas and age cracks on the bottom. The engraving remains deep and crisp. The cylinder retains 95% or more of the naval battle scene. The markings are clear. The action is fine.