This is an attractive example of a Colt Single Action Army revolver that was manufactured in 1890 and subsequently custom engraved. The revolver is decorated with scroll and punch-dot engraving much in the style of Cuno Helfricht on the barrel and frame with zigzag and dot and scallop designs on the ejector housing, cylinder and back strap. The recoil shield, loading gate and top of the back strap are engraved with sunburst designs in zigzag and dot patterns. The coverage is similar to Colt factory "B" engraving. The top of the barrel is marked with the one line Hartford address with a scallop border and "45 COLT" in a banner on the left side. The left side of the frame is marked with the three line, three patent dates. The Rampant Colt is absent. The loading gate is stamped with the assembly number "423". The matching serial number is marked on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The rear face of the cylinder is stamped with the letter "R". Blade front and frame notch rear sights, nickel finish and fitted with smooth two piece ivory grips. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number, caliber, 7 1/2 inch barrel with blue finish and hard rubber grips at the time of shipment as 1 of 10 to E.C. Meacham Arms Company, St. Louis, Missouri on July 30, 1890. (No mention of engraving!)

Professionally engraved with 50% of the nickel finish remaining showing some minor pitting in the cylinder flutes and some pin prick type pitting on the frame. The front strap and parts of the barrel have a dull gray patina. The slightly oversized grips are fine with a couple minor chips on the edges, age cracking on the bottoms, and an attractive color and grain. The markings and engraving remain crisp and clear. The action is excellent. This non-factory engraved black powder Colt Single Action Army is very well executed in the style of a factory engraved specimen for a fraction of the price!