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 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. 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. 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 "1220". The "1220" is the Wells Fargo & Company inventory number which matched the gun's 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 and "L" and "P" on the bottom of the barrel lug, all U.S. markings. Blade front and notch rear sights, blue finish with casehardened hammer and fitted with smooth walnut grips. With the revolver is a leather holster with a tooled rider on horseback scene marked "407X/5/SWS" on the back.

Very good. The revolver retains 60% original blue finish concentrated on the frame with the balance a smooth brown patina (barrel and cylinder) typical of holster wear. Traces of original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger guard. The grips are very good with a circular blemish, high edge wear and some minor handling marks.