Manufactured in 1897. The top of the barrel is marked with the two line Colt address, the left side is marked "38 W.C.F." and the left side of the frame is marked with the two line, three patent dates followed by the circled Rampant Colt. The matching serial number is marked on the frame, trigger guard and back strap. The loading gate is marked with the assembly number "818". Standard blade front and frame notch rear sights, blue finish with casehardened frame and fitted with checkered hard rubber grips with the Rampant Colt in an oval at the top. The accompanying factory letter verifies the caliber, barrel length, blue finish, hard rubber grips and that it was shipped as 1 of 25 to Simmons Hardware Co. St. Louis, Mo. on January 23, 1897

Very good plus. The barrel and ejector housing retain 30% original thin blue finish and there are strong traces of faded original case colors in protected areas on the frame. The balance of the metal surfaces have a smooth mottled gray and brown patina. The grips are good with a marred area on the right panel, a few minor dings, and a small minor bruise in the otherwise crisp checkering. The markings are clear. The action is excellent.