The factory letter included with this revolver states that it was shipped to Bill's House of Guns in Merrill, Wisconsin, on September 20, 1978, as part of a four gun shipment. The letter also confirms the current configuration including the "Class 'D' standard American style scroll" engraving and unfluted cylinder. It otherwise has standard markings and features including matching numbers. The grips are hand numbered to the gun on the underside of each panel. Of those engraved, approximately 83% were in 45 Colt, 64% had a blue finish, and only 24% of the factory engraved 3rd Generation revolvers had Grade D engraving. The revolver comes in a burnt orange hard case with the Armsmear Crest on the top and "Colts Patent Repeating Pistols./HARTFORD, CONN./BEWARE OF COUNTERFEITS & PATENT INFRINGEMENTS" over Sam Colt's signature on the inside of the lid. The orange velvet lined interior is fitted to the gun. The case includes a small Colt pin. Also included is a Colt "wood grain" box with Custom Shop label numbered to the gun and papers.

Near new in case with only the lightest of handling marks. The case is very good with some light storage marks on the exterior, light corner wear and some small stress marks and the hinge edges. Box is good with general handling and storage marks, some partially separated corners and edge wear.